Grass-like Mantis

(Thesprotia Graminis) These long and slender mantis have tiny heads, and skinny legs, making them resemble a twig. Even when endangered, they will stretch their arms to mimic a stick, often mistaken for walking sticks. They are found throughout the hot and humid areas of southern US, most common in Florida. Because of their tiny arms, the grass-like mantid can only prey on much smaller insects, such as flies and moths.

Adult males reach up to 2 inches, females are larger and can sometimes grow up to 3 inches. Adult males can be identified by the long visible antennae, as ones of the female are smaller, females are also wingless. A few weeks after mating, the female will lay her small oothecae, containing only up to 20 nymphs. She can deposit from 10 to 15 egg cases, each about every 4 days. After a few days, the deposited egg cases will turn slightly red. Nymphs will start their first molt in about 1 week after hatching, and their 2nd molt will follow in about 9 more days.