European Mantis

Mantis religiosa

MantisbeginnerHarmless

No venom, no sting

Mantises are harmless to humans. They have no venom or sting — the worst they can do is grip with their spined forelegs or deliver a startling but harmless nip.

About

The original 'praying mantis' — a hardy, adaptable temperate species and a superb first mantis. Comfortable at household temperatures with moderate 40-60% humidity, in a tall, well-ventilated enclosure with twigs to climb and hang from for molting. Light misting every couple of days for drinking. Bold feeder; house individually; harmless to humans.

Taxonomy

FamilyMantidae

GenusMantis

Native regionEurope, Asia, Africa; naturalized in North America

TypeArboreal

Temperamenthardy, bold; the classic beginner mantis

Size & growth

Adult size2-3 inches

Length50.00–75.00 mm

Growth ratemedium

Climate

Temperature68–86 °F

Humidity40–60%

Enclosure

Adult size≥3x body length tall, 2x wide; well-ventilated

Substratecoco fiber or paper towel; light misting for humidity/drinking

Substrate depth1-2 inches

Water dishOptional

Feeding

Feeding modePredator (live prey)

Prey sizeflies, crickets, roaches

Adult cadenceevery 2-3 days

Times kept: 0