Moths, crickets, grasshoppers, flies, and other insects are usually the unfortunate recipients of the praying mantid's attention. However, the insects will also eat others of their own kind. Sometimes the adult female will even eat her mate! She lays hundreds of eggs inside a small case that looks similar to a walnut. Nymphs look like tiny versions of their parents.

The praying mantis is named for its prominent front legs, which are bent and held together at an angle that suggests the position of prayer. Typically green or brown and well camouflaged on the plants among which they live, mantis lie in ambush or patiently stalk their quarry. They use their front legs to snare their prey with reflexes so quick that they are difficult to see with the naked eye. Their legs are further equipped with spikes for snaring prey and pinning it in place.

Available in season only.

We will ship your egg cases with a cold pack to keep them alive during shipment, but will hold orders received during the latter part of the week to avoid having the bugs spend the weekend in a hot warehouse!