The ‘Praying Mantis’: A Fearsome Predator Capable of Catching Birds, Rodents, and Even Snakes
To better adapt to the survival environment, for the sake of hunting prey, there are many strange shapes in the animal kingdom that are masters of disguise, such as the orchid mantis in the Malay Archipelago. As the name suggests, its body color is extremely similar to that of orchids. Because of this, the orchid mantis's hunting prey is simply a patient wait for the prey to come to its door.
Therefore, for most insects, the orchid mantis is a beautiful and deadly killer. However, the orchid mantis is only one member of the family. Within this family there are many other skilled members. Let's take a look at the world of mantises together.
Orchid mantis
Like otherworldly 'mantises'
Strange monsters, some people have witnessed them firsthand, but most people would rather see them in horror movies, but there is indeed an animal that looks like it came from space. This strange creature has repeatedly inspired science fiction novels because these bizarre creatures have different appearances. When you observe these strange insects closely, you will find it hard to believe that it belongs to our planet. This creature's vibrating body is wrapped in a shell like a spacesuit. In science fiction, such creatures can be considered alien insects, and in the real world, they are called mantises.
Mantises are widespread on both old and new continents, mainly living in tropical rainforests. They also live in dry areas around the world, and some mantis families live in deserts. Wherever they live, they all have one characteristic: they are irritable and irritable. Whether they are facing a threat or encountering bright colors and scary appearances, a closer look reveals that it is even more strange than the first impression, and some even wear colorful colors like butterflies.
All mantises have another characteristic: they have strong hunting weapons. Their front legs are folded like a folding knife. When such a powerful grip grabs prey, it rarely has a chance of survival. Their front legs have many barbs, and they need to clean them several times a day. Even a small piece of prey can cause the mantis to become seriously infected.
Ancient Egyptian rulers were fascinated by mantises
Ancient Egyptians were deeply impressed by the giant insects produced in their homeland. Their many hieroglyphs are simplified and abstract animal patterns, and they appear in drawings and carvings of nature. Animal totems played an important role in their life after death and mummification. People believed that mantises would also appear in sculptures.
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