That is a great picture, they are my favorite insects! When we were closing the pool for the season I had to wade in to save 2 that found their way in there. Watching them when they fly away they really do look like angels to me!

Hi All: I actually saw one mate and eat the males head, it is true. Since i went mostly organic (except for my Brugmansia and other greenhouse plants right before I bring them in) I have had lots.

I like the little critters. Here's my pic

I like the reflections of pine trees in the window behind the screen that he's perched upon.

I really like praying mantis too... until they ruthlessly snatch my Monarch butterflies right off the bush they are delicately sipping nectar from. Grrrrrrrrrr..

Bonnie

I was mowing the lawn recently and saw one in the grass in front of the mower. I stopped and got off, gently poking it in the butt to get it to move into the area I'd already mowed.

It turned around and reared back to attack the stick, ostensibly ignoring my hand, me, the mower, etc. It was fascinating.

I love these.

Christine

By the way, they're not immune from predation either. I saw the remains of one caught up in one of my spiderwebs.....