Praying Mantis: From Nymph to Adult

[My Green Pets]

Most days this summer, I've found this little guy amongst the leaves of my hydrangeas. It's been a joy to watch him grow up over the past couple of months. Of course, I can't be 100% sure it's the same mantis, but he's always lurking around the same bush, so I'd like to think so.

I actually caught him in the act of his final molt, but didn't get any photos. Was amazed to see him take on a rich brown color as an adult.

He's the best kind of 'pet': one that is completely free, but chooses to stay

June 18
On a leaf


June 24
Doing yoga on the heat pump (next to the hydrangea bush)


July 15
Almost an adult...


July 24
Ignoring a butterfly...maybe he was full


August 15
Can you find him?


There he is! Isn't he handsome?

[LovePhals]

That is awesome! Good pictures.

[WhiteRabbit]

Very cool!

[SydneyH]

Great pics! What a handsome fellow.

[DeaC]

Nature as it should be,but did you know they "pray" on hummingbirds?

[My Green Pets]

Originally Posted by DeaC

Nature as it should be,but did you know they "pray" on hummingbirds?

Well...no, I can't say that I did know that. But that would be an epic battle. I've seen hummingbirds kill other hummingbirds by impaling them with their beaks in midair! Viva la naturaleza!

[judith_arquette]

Fantastic pics! Thanks for sharing

[ALToronto]

For your 'pet's' sake, I hope it's not a male! They come to a rather untimely end.

[My Green Pets]

Haha, I think he might be actually, with his slender abdomen and brown color. They don't always get eaten, I have to say. But where there is life, there is also death...

[savyk]

Love the pictures thank you for sharing!!