We came across this praying mantis while walking on a local greenway trail. It seemed not the least bit interested in us, nor bothered by our presence. We were neither food nor potential mates, fortunately, for the female praying mantis draws little distinction between the two.
When a female mantis captures its prey, which can include smaller mantises, it grips them with its two front, powerful arms and commences eating, or in the case of a male mantis, bites it’s head off first. (Guys, don’t even start…) This may include an amorous male mantis that has just finished mating, which to my mind would be a strong incentive for celibacy.
#prayingmantis #cannibalism #celibacy
Eskildoodle Photos and Feelings 