A Praying Mantis, or praying mantid, is the common name for an insect of the order Mantodea. These insects are notorious predators and their name is sometime mistakenly spelled ‘Preying Mantis’ which is incorrect.

Their elongated bodies may or may not have wings, but all Mantodea have forelegs that are greatly enlarged and adapted for catching and gripping prey; their upright posture, while remaining stationary with forearms folded, has led to the common name praying mantis.

Aug 19, 2024 · Learn more about these mysterious insects with these 10 fascinating praying mantis facts. 1. Most Praying Mantids Live in the Tropics. Of approximately 2,000 species of mantids described to date, almost all are tropical creatures. Just 18 native species are known from the entire North American continent.

Oct 10, 2020 · The Praying Mantis (Mantis religiosa), or European Mantis, is a species of praying mantid belonging to the family Mantidae. As its name suggests, it is native to Europe but it is also native to parts of Asia and Africa as well.

Aug 16, 2024 · The praying mantis is an insect that has fascinated humans for centuries. A master predator in the garden, mantids have an abundance of lore surrounding them—including whether they eat hummingbirds. Here are some of our …

Apr 5, 2021 · The Praying Mantis, officially called the European mantis (Mantis religiosa), is one of over 2,400 types of Mantis. Their common name comes from how they hold their front legs in what looks like a prayer position.

Sep 10, 2010 · Praying mantises are predatory insects named for the look of their folded forelegs, which are held close together as if praying. The name most commonly refers to Mantis religiosa, the...