Praying Mantis for sale in the Netherlands

Praying mantises: behaviour and suitability

A mantis sits still for long periods and strikes extremely quickly. Co-housing ends in cannibalism in many species. Females produce one or more egg cases after maturity. Always assess the actual animal and, when a trade label covers several species, verify the scientific name before acquisition. Age, sex, health and previous housing can noticeably influence behaviour.

Care and housing

Keep height at least three times body length and leave free moulting space beneath the ceiling. Balance misting and ventilation, feed suitable insects and remove prey before a moult. Set up the complete enclosure before the animal arrives and record relevant values and daily behaviour. A sudden change in appetite, activity, breathing, posture or droppings calls for a check of the environment and, where needed, knowledgeable help.

Health and responsible acquisition

Ask about species, instar, sex and captive origin and inspect forelegs, eyes and abdomen. Avoid pesticides on feeder insects and do not allow emerging nymphs to escape. Ask the seller about age, origin, current care and known health problems, and ensure any documents belong to the animal offered. Never choose on colour, size or price alone, and identify a knowledgeable veterinarian or other species expert before urgent problems arise.