Reply fast! How to feed a mating female

[Extrememantid]

My european mantid pair are mating, how can I get her to grab her grasshopper? She was eating but when he jumped on she dropped it.

EDIT: she is eating the grasshopper again but them male is having a hard time connecting. He is pretty old. I've had him since august. (was an adult when I got him)

Thanks,

Cole!

 

[Rick]

She doesn't have to be eating for them to mate. It may reduce the chances of the male being eaten but it isn't absolutely necessary she be eating.

 

[Termite48]

The main thing is that she not be starved and she should be distracted enough to not go after the male. Once he is mounted, the chances of survival are much better. I caught my female Orchid yesterday attacking the male because he was not mounted and dancing around within striking distance. I was able to intervene and save his life. If you place him on her back, it is a lot easier for the male.

 

[aNisip]

Just put the "guts" (where she last left the grasshopper) up to her mouth and she'll resume eating...

 

[Extrememantid]

Thanks guys, he is on her back but not actually mating.

 

[Sticky]

Sometimes I will help the male by puting a finger under his abdomen and lifting or moving it into the right place so he can do his job. I try not to do too much that will disturb him into stopping and or getting off of her.