showed up in the yard. Sure, there have been sightings now and then of the developing and growing mantis nymphs in their various stages since they hatched back in early June. But this adult female (I'm guessing, based on the appendages at the tip of the abdomen), at just over 3.25 inches long, was pretty impressive and quite a bit larger than the last immature nymphs I saw. Her right forewing is twisted; not sure if that will be a problem for her or not. All she has done since we noticed her is stand quite still, following our movements by swiveling her head on its ridiculously skinny neck; then she apparently ducked back into the depths of the shrubbery, since we don't see her anymore.
Probably the vast majority of the 100s of mantis nymphs that hatched were eaten, maybe even by their siblings. Likely there are a few more adults hiding in the foliage, but this is the only one I've seen. I'm hoping for at least two . . . as in a mated pair which would produce eggs and repeat the cycle for next year.
1 comment:
I love her heart shaped face. Surely she will attract a mate.
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