Explore 50 Surprising Facts About the Praying Mantis

Praying Mantis Myths

Moving on from the facts, it’s time to tackle some myths and reveal the reality behind them.

• Praying mantises are always green.
  They are not limited to just green; their colors vary widely. They can be found in shades of brown, gray, and even pink, especially in environments where such colors offer better camouflage.
• Female praying mantises always eat their mates.
  It is not always the case that female praying mantises consume their mates. This behavior is observed primarily in captivity, where males cannot escape easily, rather than as a common practice in the wild.
• Praying mantises are harmful to humans.
  They are not harmful to humans. They are non-venomous and their defensive bite, which is rare, is not dangerous to humans.
• Praying mantises can only turn their heads 180 degrees.
  An impressive flexibility is exhibited by praying mantises; they can swivel their heads nearly 180 degrees to scan their surroundings, allowing them to see almost all the way behind them.
• Praying mantises are not helpful in gardens.
  Contrary to this belief, they are considered beneficial in gardens. They are voracious predators of pests such as mosquitoes, moths, and flies, helping to keep these populations under control.