Amazing Leaf-Mimicking Praying Mantis in Costa Rica

in #animalphotography7 years ago (edited)

I have seen praying mantis in Europe on many occasions and they are significantly different in shape to this beautiful, extraordinary being that is the Leaf Mimicking Praying Mantis.
I found this particular one in my bedroom last night. Just after turning the light off to go to sleep I started hearing something akin to a rolled up ball of paper being kicked against the wall.

On investigation I found this amazing creature, hunting other smaller insects that had collected earlier in the light of my bedside lamp. When it flew against the wall its body sounded like it was made of big dry leaves.

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The big front legs have sharp teeth with which he impales his victims. I knew I was not going to be able to sleep through his antics so I carefully picked him up in a fine cloth and put him outside.

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These were taken using my Canon PowerShot SX60 HS

Namaste

Do not seek love. Be Love.

Sadhguru Jaggi Vasudev

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excellent animals photography. i love your post. dear @sallybeth23

thank so much dear

you can't really notice if you wouldn't look closely. amazing defense mechanism.

i like your post,,,,very nice photograph,,,my dear @sallybeth,

thanks very much

thanks to D: i always with you

WHAT??

Never seen that before!

It was my first time too, so much character!

Amazing photo & Steem On @sallybeth23!

very beautiful friend, I like your post

thanks very much

amazing shots dear as ususal love thiss work. have a great time

thanks very much

This thing i saw here too. I wonder how their back looks like a leave. Are they born from leaves ?

It looks so scary! It's awesome! But probably, a very gentle and harmless forest dweller. Thank you for sharing @sallybeth23!

I have a lot of respect for them. yes a little scary

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