There are nearly 2,000 species of the Mantidae. Their name is derived from their prayer like stance. The Greeks called them Mantes, or prophet. But don’t let their humble exterior fool you.

Orchid Mantis

They are patient in their quest for food. Sometimes stalking, even ambushing their prey, they strike out with precision speed towards their prey. They then grasp their newly hunt with their spiked forelegs, eagerly consuming their feast. Larger species have been known to devour snakes, birds, lizards, rodents and frogs. They will even cannibalize their own if hungry.

Mantis Catching Hummingbird

They rely heavily on their sight to catch their prey, some species being able to rotate their heads nearly 300 degrees. They are quite adept at camouflaging themselves. Some are so in tune with the landscape, that they can even mimic their surroundings. They can appear to be leaves, flowers, branches, grass, etc. They are masters of disguises.

Can you find the Leaf Mantis?

Females are the femme fatales of the mating game. Some males don’t leave the mating scene alive, as the female will devour his head before he’s had a chance to deposit his sperm. Scientists speculate on whether this behavior may be attributed to more vigorous ejaculations of the male in order to ensure insemination, while the female gains nourishment. Smaller males have a tendency to copulate longer with females, being ever so careful as not to become a snack. Dismounting after the sexy time is a moment of danger, and the male has to time his departure accordingly.

Mantis Mating

If all goes well, a female can lay between 10-400 eggs deposited in a frothy mass. The mass hardens creating what is called an ootheca.

Ootheca

A mantis can live for up to a year if not hunted by predators. If threatened, the mantis will expand their body by stretching out their wings and standing tall. If they perceive a continued threat, they will strike out at their harasser. Some will even hiss at their attacker.

Orchid Mantis

Despite their formidable behavior, one can’t help but be held in awe of these amazing creatures.