Fun Facts About The Praying Mantis (Mantids)

By Renee A. Thomaier

Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

There are about 2,000 species of mantids based on information documented in 2020. Only 18 species are native to North America, with the remaining species occupying tropical areas. The species you would see here in the United States are exotic species. The majority of mantids in New Jersey are invasive, more specifically the Chinese mantis and the European mantis. Believe it or not, mantids, who are insects, are closely related to both termites and cockroaches.

The praying mantis is the only insect possessing the ability to swivel their heads 180 degrees, which makes it challenging to sneak up on them. Even those who are not fond of insects seem to be fascinated, even drawn, to the praying mantis. This acceptance of them is likely due to their humanoid faces and long, grasping forelegs.

Reproduction comes in the form of eggs - depositing them on a stem or twig in the fall, protecting them with a substance resembling Styrofoam which she secretes from her body. The eggs will develop over the winter. You would be able to find eggs during the winter after trees and shrubs have lost their leaves. However, attempting to bring these egg sacks into your home could result in finding your house overrun with little mantids. The male praying mantis is sometimes beheaded before consummation with the female. Turns out the male is considered a better lover without his brain, which controls inhibition and the act of copulation.

For obvious reasons the name of the praying mantis refers to the way it holds its front legs, as if to pray, however, this is a deadly predator. Their attack is lightning quick to grab an insect, using its sharply spined forelegs, enabling them to hold its prey tightly as it devours it. While they are often viewed as beneficial insects, they will devour good bugs and bad bugs. Larger mantids will feast upon frogs, birds, and lizards.

There are no state/federal laws protecting the praying mantis.

I gathered the information for this article from multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732-244-2768.

It’s illegal to possess, relocate, or cause harm to wildlife for any reason. Managing wildlife without the proper state/federal permits is illegal. Violating laws protecting wildlife is punishable by law.

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WHEN THINGS AREN’T AS BRIGHT

Any change in vision could be a sign of serious issues, but one of the more common changes people notice is darker or less colorful vision in one eye. This can be a symptom of macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, optic neuritis, or retinal detachment. Light enters the eye through the retina, which translates the data to the optic nerve. If either of those parts are damaged, it can result in dimmer vision. Cataracts are more likely to develop in both eyes, but it is possible for only one eye to be affected. If you’re experiencing darkened vision when you first wake up, it could be a sign of eye stroke caused by decreased blood flow to the optic nerve.

When you call to make an eye appointment, be prepared to describe any current vision problems. In addition, ask if the eye examination will affect your vision temporarily and if you will need someone to drive you home. To schedule an eye exam, please call SIGHTMD NEW JERSEY SUSSKIND & ALMALLAH EYE ASSOCIATES at 732-349-5622. We offer evening hours most nights of the week. P.S. Darkness or dimness in one eye can be a sign of diabetic retinopathy, a serious condition that can lead to permanent blindness.