The common praying mantis (Mantis religiosa) is more common than the two mantis species that live in Slovenia. Individuals of this species are camouflaged, usually green, though you can also find animals in brown or gray colors. The color of its body depends on external factors, especially on the prevailing color of the environment before molting, when it can even change the color of its body. The adult male is 4 to 6.5 cm long; the female, which we will recognize by her noticeably large rear, can reach up to 8 cm.
The common mantis, like other members of this group, is a predator. In hunting it relies on its protective coloration and patience. By its shape and color it blends into the surroundings and in ambush patiently waits for an unwary arthropod or even a young lizard, then captures the prey with a specially adapted first pair of legs. The front grasping legs, equipped with sharp teeth and spines, are often held in front of it as if in prayer, which has given rise to its name. The other four legs are walking legs.
Mating occurs late in summer and autumn; during mating the female often bites off the head of the mate, then eats him to obtain the energy needed for the development of fertilized eggs. The female then lays reddish-brown egg envelopes in hidden places, under stones, on dead branches or trunks. From them in spring hatch the nymphs, which resemble adults but are wingless. Even as nymphs they are predatory and frequently attack their own kind as well.
