Green mantid

Green praying mantis, La Ceiba, Honduras

Frank found this green mantid today. It was about 4 inches long (10 cm.). He brought it me on this heliconia leaf to show it to me. We had a big discussion as to whether it is bad or good. Frank says it's called 'madre culebra' (snake mother) and it will sting people. Huh? I said that it won't and that it's good because it eats other insects. Well, I know it can eat beneficial insects, too, but I need all the help I can get getting rid of bad insects.

I won.

The praying mantis will live to eat another day.