Praying Mantis (Orchid)

About the Praying Mantis (Orchid)

The most beautiful predator in the insect world - their legs and body mimic pink and white orchid petals so perfectly that pollinators come to them. They do not actually hide on orchids - they ARE the lure. Research shows they attract more pollinators than real flowers do. They can change color between pink and white over several days. They are the only known animal that mimics a flower to attract prey rather than to hide. They were first described in 1879. They are popular in the exotic pet trade.