Angry Prying Mantis pictures (bugs, insects, yard, plant)

[new jersey mike]

I was not sure were to post these pics Garden or Photography and I thought the other gardeners would truly appreciate them.

I saw a Robin pouncing on the ground and ran for my camera.

This prying mantis was not going to be anyone's dinner.
That day

[new jersey mike]

The remainder of my pics.

It's amazing what you see if you just take the time to look.

Again enjoy.

[no kudzu]

thanks Mike, my 7 year old daughter has just recently discovered praying mantises and she will flip when I show her these pics. I found a real one for her but she was a bit intimidated and wouldn't hold it. They really do look dangerous and I have to admit I wasn't too eager to catch it either but the whole family enjoyed studying him and identifying his body parts. It was a science lesson she won't soon forget. Only a daughter of mine would love a praying mantis! I'm so proud!!!!!

[20yrsinBranson]

Originally Posted by new jersey mike

I was not sure were to post these pics Garden or Photography and I thought the other gardeners would truly appreciate them.

I saw a Robin pouncing on the ground and ran for my camera.

This prying mantis was not going to be anyone's dinner.
That day

Like they say.... "The best defense is a good offense".

Gutsy little mantis, that!

20yrsinBranson

[ChessieMom]

Great pics! What kind of camera did you use?

[thepinksquid]

hehehehe

Those things are so cool, and creepy at the same time.

[Plantme]

Wow! I saw wings in the pics. Has anyone seen one actually fly?

[new jersey mike]

What do you mean actually fly? Like a video or do you think there fake, it's ok if you do, their not. I used my Nikon DX40 with a 200 zoom.

It's easier to get a Hummingbird Moth then a humming bird. The bird is feeding on the cannas and flying just like the rest.

Originally Posted by Plantme

Wow! I saw wings in the pics. Has anyone seen one actually fly?

[new jersey mike]

Sorry plant me, that's my mistake I have 2 post one the praying mantis and hummingbirds. This is what happens when I rush and do not have coffee.

I have not gotten a picture of a flying mantis but here is a picture of a young one 2 months earlier. I have them all around my yard in high numbers because I collect cocoons in the winter.

[jeepejeep]

They are facinating insects. Eat tons of other bugs too. Ever had one sink those sharp hooks on their forelegs into your finger? Hurts like hell! They don't take any guff for sure.