Critters of the Week

Where Spotted: Westover Hills
Common Name: Praying Mantis specifically a Carolina Mantis
Scientific Name: Stagmomantis carolina
Length: Adult females are 47 to 60 millimeters (2-2.5 inches) adult males are about 54 millimeters (2.2 inches)

Quick Facts Courtesy of Capital Naturalist

•  “Praying” mantis have long fascinated people. The very term “mantis” comes from ancient Greek meaning “prophet” or “seer” due to the way they hold their legs in prayer-like fashion.
• All mantis have a unique ability to turn their heads around much more than other insects. They are said to be the only insects that can look over their shoulders.
• There are 20 species of mantis in North America. Unfortunately, of the two we commonly see around here, the most likely one we encounter is the non-native Chinese Mantis (Tenodera aridifolia).
• Chinese Mantis are larger, the females getting to about 4″. Chinese Mantis also have wings that extend beyond their abdomen, while the female Carolina Mantis have wings that only extend part way along the back.
• A typical Carolina ootheca produces about 50 eggs, while the Chinese might produce 350 eggs.
• Sexual cannibalism occurs in roughly one quarter of all intersexual encounters of this species, though specimens of this species will engage in cannibalism regardless of age or gender if the opportunity presents itself.
• The Carolina mantis is the state insect of South Carolina.
• The Carolina mantis’ color varies because the nymphs are able to adjust their color to match the environment they are in at the time of molting. They can adjust their color over each molt, if necessary, until they reach their final molt to adulthood.

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Jada at Richmond SPCA

Are you searching for a fun, friendly and adorable family member? My name is Jada and I’m the girl for you! I am pretty lonely here by myself, just waiting for my special someone to come along. Won’t you please take me home today?

Age: 14 years, 1 month
Gender: Spayed Female
Color: Grey
ID: 48579752

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