This is a photo art portrait of a praying mantis. I found it on one of our logs outside our front door. I called the image 'posing praying mantis' but the mantis is actually in full defensive mode as we disturbed it by moving the log (we didn't know it was there of course). It's wings are beautiful and lacy and you don't see them very often on these creatures as the wings are tucked away.
Praying Mantis can turn their heads 180 degrees (which reminds me of the film The Exorcist!). This one was about six inches long, about as big as they get. They are known for the female often eating the male during or after mating - yukk!!
This one hissed at me as I took the photograph, though they are unlikely to bite. Their front legs have spines that can give you cuts like paper cuts if you pick one up.
Born in the South of England I now live half way up a mountain in Umbria, Italy. I work from my art studio looking out over fabulous views of the Italian countryside. I am so happy to share my artwork with you.
An artist and writer, I specialize..
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