I'm living in Perth, Australia, and recently planted a garden and had the first live Mantis I've seen (originally from Canada) show up in my strawberry patch, perfect for pest control of course. Anyway, I've taken such a liking to it and read up so much on them in the last couple weeks that I'm looking to get a few more as pets and try and populate my garden with them as well. Until now this little guy below is the only one I've come across. I've had a couple unsuccessful hunts in bushy areas near my house but no luck.
I haven't had the heart to cage him yet but am considering it, however its made me wonder where he goes at night? Once dark rolls in he's no where to be found in the strawberry patch, but every morning he's back front and center on the tallest runner. Any idea? What is Mantis night behavior like?
Also, any tips for locating them? I've probably spent about 5-6 hours only but have yet to come across another. That probably sounds impatient but it makes me wonder if I'm looking in the right places.
And finally, this seems your typical garden variety, but can anyone confirm the species for me? Certainly quite small, my wife has seen some huge ones further north in the more tropical parts of Australia.
Thanks for your time, very new and I know next to nothing about Mantids, but very interested.
I haven't had the heart to cage him yet but am considering it, however its made me wonder where he goes at night? Once dark rolls in he's no where to be found in the strawberry patch, but every morning he's back front and center on the tallest runner. Any idea? What is Mantis night behavior like?
Also, any tips for locating them? I've probably spent about 5-6 hours only but have yet to come across another. That probably sounds impatient but it makes me wonder if I'm looking in the right places.
And finally, this seems your typical garden variety, but can anyone confirm the species for me? Certainly quite small, my wife has seen some huge ones further north in the more tropical parts of Australia.
Thanks for your time, very new and I know next to nothing about Mantids, but very interested.
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