A Praying Mantis on a twig with a green background. cover photo - 246030178

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A Praying Mantis on a twig with a green background. 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 native to parts of Asia and Africa as well. This mantis species is widespread in parts of the US and Canada, although it is not native here and was introduced over a century ago. It was accidentally introduced to New York from Europe in 1899 and continues to spread, being found as far west as the Vancouver area in Canada. There are 12 recognized subspecies across its range. These insects are named for their stance which resembles someone praying.Like all insects, the praying mantis has a segmented body, consisting of three segments â€“ the head, thorax, and belly. In adults, the abdomen is covered by wings. They have four legs in the abdomen area and another two larger forelegs that appear to be more like arms. Their head is triangular and contains their large, compound eyes. A praying mantis can rotate its head 180 degrees, as well as pivot it, giving it an excellent range of vision.

africa animals asia background body europe european eyes green head insects legs mantidea mantis plants praying religosa trees twig