This Is Why Snakes Are Afraid of Mantises

Named for its prominent front legs that fold together in a gesture suggesting devotion, the praying mantis comes off as serene and soulful. 

You might think of them as docile things, moving about slowly, nibbling on orchids ... but oh, how looks deceive.

 The truth is, mantises are ambush predators with lightning-fast moves.

With their long necks, upright posture, distinct faces, and direct gaze, they’re decidedly charismatic (or terrifying). But more than that, they are fascinating creatures that have mastered their place in the natural world. 

About 2,000 known mantis species exist around the world, exhibiting a wide and awe-inspiring array of adaptations to their environments. 

For a few examples, consider the following facts about these incredible insects.

They Have Great Vision

Praying mantises possess stereo vision, and thanks to the placement of their eyes, they also have a wide field of vision. Each of their eyes has a fovea — a concentrated area of photoreceptor cells that lets them focus and track with acuity. And not only can mantises see in 3-D, but research has found their 3-D vision works differently

2. They Are Head Turners

Mantises are the only insects capable of turning their heads from side to side. Being able to turn its head without moving the rest of its body is a key advantage for a mantis when hunting, allowing for minimal movement as it sneaks up on prey.

3. They Are Agile Like Cats

To the surprise of scientists filming them, mantises have been found to jump with extreme precision, contorting their body midair to land on a precarious and specific target.

4. They Make Swift Work of Their Prey

Praying mantises wait to ambush or patiently stalk their prey, but once they’re ready to strike, they do so with lightning speed, attacking with those big front legs so quickly it’s hard to see with the naked eye. In addition, they have spikes on their legs to skewer and pin the victims into place.

5. They Are Masters of Disguise