the creep factor
Reading my blogs this summer, you might think that I have a keen interest in insects. That is not really true, although they are fascinating in their own ways. And for some reason, I keep seeing them, which means they become photographic subjects. To me, many of them have a real creep factor. One of these is the praying mantis. The bright green body with or without wings and bulging eyes that provide stereo vision, gives it just enough edge to be creepy. Adding to the weirdness is the fact that (according to Wikipedia), "Females sometimes practice sexual cannibalism, eating their mates after copulation." Too much? Definitely enough of that.
The praying mantis belongs to a large order Mantodea "that contains over 2,400 species in about 460 genera in 33 families." (Wikipedia). They have a habit of rocking, which can mimic the movement of leaves. As a photographic subject, they are perfect because they wait for their many types of prey to come to them. If you watch a mantis long enough, they will start watching you. Despite that, the are very good for the garden, consuming a number of different pests. The following photographs demonstrate the statement "What are you looking at?"
The image below with the front legs together shows why they are called "praying mantis"
Some minor developing adjustments gives a slightly spooky effect.
Thanks to Jean & Sam, Ann, Peggy, Melissa, Catherine, Marilyn G., Barbara F. R., Steve, MFB, Carolyn S., Victoria, Dianne J. and Robert for commenting on last week's blog. During these vacation months when so many of you are out and about, I particularly appreciate your thoughts on the blog.
until next Monday,
DB
a passion for the image©