I see you are in California. (So am I) Yes, there are a few different species here, but there can be lots of color variation within a single species. They are expert camoflagers(sp?) For the most part, the adult females have only half-length wings, and do not fly. The males are smaller, skinnier, and have full length wings and can fly. Can you post pictures of your mantids?

20 species of mantids native to the U.S., and introduced species also.

Hi Cindy! I am in a very strangely overcast Sacramento. :o)
I will try to take a pic of the tan guy.... the green ones (without wings or very small ones) are everywhere, and I even have baby pics of those.... the tan guy is a little skittish, but I will try to find him/her today. It's been hanging out in one bed for the last few days, hopefully it's fertile bug ground and will pose for some pics! Here's a pic of a little guy that ran up and down my arm this spring, wouldn't pose for a second! :o)
{{!gwi}}