Critters of the Week

Where Spotted: Forest Hill Park Lake
Common Name: Praying Mantis specifically a Carolina Mantis (with bonus Honey Bee)
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.

If you’re a fan of original content like those photos above be sure to give our Instagram and Dickie’s Backyard Bird Blind Bonanza on FB a follow and consider making a donation.

Van Zandt at Richmond SPCA

What’s up ya’ll?! I’m the one, the only, yours truly, THE Van Zandt! I’m the class clown at the shelter, make no mistake. I’ll have you cracking up left and right with my antics! My shelter buddies tell me I could use some basic manners, so I’m hoping I can find a family willing to show me the ropes. Won’t that be you?

Age: 3 years,
Gender: Neutered Male
Color: Black / Brown
Size: M (dog size guide)
ID: 4870392

Adopt Van Zandt at Richmond SPCA

Learn more about their adoption process.