The praying mantis Mantis religiosa in an intimi- dation posture. This green coloured mantis relies on its body colour for camouflage among the plants
The praying mantis Mantis religiosa in an intimi- dation posture. This green coloured mantis relies on its body colour for camouflage among the plants on which it lives. When disturbed, as seen here, this mantis raises its front legs to reveal two white spots that mimic eyes. These would startle the enemy. Mantis religiosa also raises its wings creating a noise which resembles crumpled paper. By raising its wings the insect appears larger, especially when seen from side-on. The noise of the wings add to this intimidation display. Predators of the praying mantis include birds, reptiles and amphibians.
Size: 3551px × 5026px
Photo credit: © CLAUDE NURIDSANY & MARIE PERENNOU/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: animal, camouflage, defence, display, eye, eyespot, insect, insecta, intimidation, invertebrate, invertebrates, jointed, legs, mantis, nature, religiosa, spot, type, wildlife, zoology
