Mantid Newb here with a few questions...

[ADHybrid]

Hi everyone,

Well, this will be my first venture into any type of terrestrial invert. I'd like to keep a few mantids to start off with and slowly add to a collection. I live in california, and today I have seen a few white praying mantis which I BELIEVE are Stagmomantis californica (from pics) but I can't be 100% sure. My first question would be would this be the species of mantis they sell at the local nurseries around here (I'm assuming it might be because they are meant to be released and Stagmomantis californica is one of the more common species from what I understand in california). Second question is what is the best time/place to catch praying mantis' in central california (fresno area). Finally, where are the best places to find the more exotic species online? I work for a petstore but we mostly get standard looking mantids or stick bugs. Thanks in advanced for the help.

-Chris

 

[wuwu]

welcome to the wonderful world of mantids! the species that nurseries sell is chinese mantids, although now and then, carolina mantids are sometimes offered. the best time to catch mantids would be in late summer/early fall. this is when mantids have matured into adults so they're much easier to find than the super camouflaged nymphs. males are usually flying around and landing on buildings and such too.

the best place to buy mantids online would be the classified section on this forum. there are many breeders that post their excess stock.

 

[Rick]

Welcome to the forums. Make sure you use the search feature because most questions have been answered before.