These insects get their name because they have very long front legs that they hold in a position that reminds people of praying. There are about 1,800 species of praying mantids around the world.
Praying mantids are carnivores, eating mainly insects and other small animals. Many gardeners and farmers welcome mantids, because the insects they eat are often pests that hurt crops. In addition to insects such as crickets and grasshoppers, mantids eat spiders, frogs, lizards, and even small birds.
Praying mantids have long necks topped by a triangular head. They can turn their heads 180 degrees—an entire half circle—which, along with exceptional eyesight, helps them spot prey. They're well-camouflaged, adapting colours that help them blend with the plants they live near. Some also have amazing body shapes that make them look like leaves or branches.
To hunt, mantids either sit and wait for an insect to pass by, or they stalk them. They're nearly invisible when they sit still, looking like part of a leaf or stem. When they are close enough, they strike so quickly—about one-twentieth of a second—you probably couldn't even see it happen. It's just a blur.
What a cool visitor to your class.
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