Fig. 115. MANTIS RELIGIOSA. 



WINGS AND STINGS. 



" An insect of what clime I can't determine, 



That lifts its paws most parson-like, and thence 

 By simple savages thro' sheer pretence 

 Is reckoned quite a saint among the vermin." 



TH. HOOD. 



CHAPTER XLVIII. 



MANTIS RELIGIOSA (Figs. 115 & 116). These curious- 

 looking creatures are sure to attract the attention of 

 strangers. How well they are designed to deceive 

 the eye ; how well adapted to seize their unsuspecting 

 prey ! Truly the Mantis is the very incarnation of 

 grab, with his prominent eyes and muscular front 

 legs. These last he keeps curiously folded : hence 

 the name " Praying Mantis." Fit emblem of preda- 

 cious piety ! 



The green-coloured species lie concealed in the 

 foliage which they closely resemble. The thin, dry, 

 brown sort simulate a withered twig. If they do 

 not chance to move, the sharpest eye will not detect 

 them. These wingless ones are immature. The 

 thorax is elongated, and the small serrated abdomen 

 is turned upward like a tail. The whole attitude 



