A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2005 Not A Pest!

Depending on your point of view, though, I reckon. Angel was trying to protect Momma!

I went out to unplug the bug lamp we have on the deck one morning and found this critter. Problem is...Angel found it, too. I told her it was a good bug and told her to leave it alone, but she wouldn't come in the house until I hollered "BALL!" She went running into the patio doors to get the ball then.





That is a praying mantis, is it not? My first thought was a walking stick because it was so large, but after zooming in with Jim's camera's, I saw it praying. Probably praying that Angel liked balls better that bugs.....

Dianna

Praying mantis, definitely not a walking stick Aren't those just the coolest? I think I'm a closeted entomologist

Mary, I thought you already came out of the closet?

Seriously, those buggies are so cool!! I've had a few praying mantis' in my yard this year.. but I've rarely seen walking sticks.

Thanks for the link to the walking stick, Mary. I don't know if I would have had the thing on my hand for pictures after everything I have read about them.

The Mantis was HUGE, so my first thought was walking stick but with the link you posted I could definitely see a big difference.

Meg, you are a hoot and a half!

Dianna

You know what is really cool when a praying mantis breeds. The female bites the head of the males off while in the act! But, they are a beneficial insect and can eat the bugs that eat some plants!

Please don't anyone tell Cindy this statement is posted here.....the topic will go on for DAYS!!!!

Good grief Mary...I have NEVER seen a walking stick that BIG! That is one bad boy there!!!

Shhhh Vanessa, don;t say her name too loud. She will hear!