European Mantis

The European mantis is a large insect in the family Mantidae, the largest family within the mantis order Mantodea, and gives the group its common name praying mantis for the distinctive posture of its raptorial front legs at rest. Both sexes have elongated bodies with two pairs of wings and a highly mobile, triangular head with large compound eyes, and the modified front legs are adapted for the efficient capture and restraint of fast-moving prey. It is assessed as least concern globally by the IUCN, though it is listed as endangered in Germany, where it may not be caught or kept as a pet.