Demure Mantis

What am I looking at?

This image shows a species of praying mantis known as Deiphobe brunneri, with its wings extended and its claws tucked under its head, ready to either attack or defend itself.

Click on the right arrow to see some additional views of this mantis.

Biology in the background

While this mantis may look cute, its extended wings indicate a posture of threat or defense. Mantises spread their wings and legs wide to make themselves look as big and intimidating as possible. In addition, notice that its wings are more brightly colored and have a higher level of detail than its body and legs. These colors and details also aid in making the mantis look intimidating and fierce.

When they put their wings away, mantises are excellent hunters and can use their large, claw-like forelegs to grasp and hold other insects. They use their coloration to camouflage themselves in the surrounding environment and pounce on passing prey as soon as it comes within reach. In addition, they can rotate their heads up to 300 degrees, allowing them to look in almost all directions while standing still.

This species of mantis can grow up to 10 centimeters long, or roughly the length of a human palm.

Technique

This image was created using macrophotography.