Praying Mantis
Scientific Name: Mantis religiosa (or various other species depending on region)
Order & Family: Mantodea (Order), Mantidae (Family)
Size: 2 to 6 inches (5-15 cm) in length, though some tropical species can be larger.
Natural Habitat
Typically found in areas with dense vegetation, grasslands, gardens, and shrubby areas where they can camouflage and hunt. They prefer warm climates.
Diet & Feeding
Strictly carnivorous, feeding primarily on other insects such as flies, moths, crickets, grasshoppers, and sometimes even small vertebrates like lizards, frogs, or hummingbirds. They are ambush predators.
Behavior Patterns
Known for their characteristic 'praying' posture, which is actually their forelegs held ready to strike prey. They are masters of camouflage, remaining still for long periods to blend into their surroundings. They are solitary creatures and can be cannibalistic, especially during mating (females sometimes eat the males).
Risks & Benefits
Praying mantises pose no risks to humans. They are highly beneficial to ecosystems as natural pest control, preying on many garden pests. They are often welcomed by gardeners for this reason.
Identified on: 9/16/2025