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Thursday, April 09, 2009

Mantids after their Skeletons Harden



















These are two of the Stagmomantis californica nymphs after their exoskeletons have hardened and now you can see the striped markings on them. The first one climbed to the tip of a Sedum nussbaumerianum leaf, posed there for a few moments before hopping onto the acacia itiaphylla swaying overhead. They are very good jumpers.

















The second one kept trying to reach the next senecio leaf by stretching its tiny body; then finally and easily made the leap.

3 comments:

Moe said...

Great shots. I had a number of mantids in the yard last year, but didn't notice them until June, I think. I'll get out earlier and see if I can catch some nymphs!

StayAtHomeKat said...

how precious!

great camera!

great photography!

no one said...

I love preying mantis'! We usually find some baby ones around our house in the spring. I didn't see as many adults last year though, so I don't know if we will have babies this year.