Photo Gallery Freaky Facts and Features of Creepy Crawly Creatures of the Rainforest Praying Mantis Description Mantic is an insect that is sometimes called praying mantis because it usually holds its front legs as if it were praying.
Most mantids live in tropical or warm climates.
Food A mantid uses its arm like forelegs to grasp and capture its prey. The forelegs have sharp spines and hooks that hold captives. Mantis prey on other insects, including other mantids. They even seize and eat small tree frogs. A full-grown mantid measures from 2 to 5 inches in length, depending on the species.