Found this guy in the street on a walk in Fremont, Ohio and placed him/her on a shrub; this made for a better photo than the photo on the roadway. Also, a photo of the face no doubt aided in identification as this species has a more squarish face shield than all the other mantids I have posted.
From BugGuide: “Introduced from China in 1896 to combat pests. It out competes many of the native preying mantises, which are in decline.
“The largest species in North America, it can reach 11 cm.
“Carnivorous, eats other insects, both pests and beneficials. Also capable of eating small animals like frogs, lizards and even hummingbirds!”
Retired economics professor (“dismal scientist”). Married 40+ years to the love of my life; we have two grown daughters, both married, two granddaughters and a...
