European Mantis

bogomoljka · Mantis religiosa

insectcommon

The praying mantis of dry meadows and karst scrub — a patient ambush predator that sways like a leaf before snatching prey with spined forelegs.

Identification & best seen

Green or straw-brown, long-bodied, with folded 'praying' front legs and a swivelling head.

Habitat & where to see

Dry grassland, scrub and gardens, late summer.

Fun fact

It can rotate its head almost 180° — the only insect that can look back over its 'shoulder'.