Is it Illegal to Kill a Praying Mantis?
It may be entirely possible that your state has its own mandate regulating the destruction of the creatures, but in terms of federal law, none exists. So how did this stigma get attached to the mantis, that, for its benefit, has possibly saved the lives of hundreds, if not thousands, of its kind?
The praying mantis is considered by many a noble insect, namely because of its stance in which its two front legs are held up in such a way that it appears to be praying. The bug may indeed be praying, we will never know for sure, but if that is indeed the case, it is most likely praying for food, in the form of another insect.
When suitable prey wanders too close, it uses lightning-quick reflexes to grab the insect and hold it fast with serrated, dagger-like protrusions on its front legs. Hungrily and greedily, it devours its prey. A more suitable name for this insect would be the preying mantis, and it is sometimes called so. The female of the species devours its mate in much the same way, additionally and gruesomely removing the head of the unfortunate suitor.
Hardly noble, but the mantis is in fact a highly beneficial insect to have around. They kill many harmful bugs, such as mosquitos and moths, and are occasionally used by gardeners and in greenhouses to kill such bugs, keeping the plants safe from harm and preserving ecological balance. However, while gardeners may appreciate the efforts of the mantis, the bug actually makes no distinction between so-called harmful insects and any others that walk too close to its waiting grasp, eagerly consuming all.
In Asia, the mantis is considered lucky and a good omen, and was studied by Shaolin monks, who developed a fighting style based upon its movements. The mantis was also believed to have many unique attributes, some beneficial and others harmful, in all cultures.
There are actually several hundred species of mantids, ranging in size from one inch to six, depending upon region, species, and gender. The belief that it was illegal to kill a mantis may have originated around the time that the term “praying” was applied to the name, as many people might have considered it taboo or unlucky to kill anything while it was praying. In all likelihood, the myth was probably introduced about the time it was discovered that they are more beneficial to humans than harmful. Additionally, they make interesting pets, though you should certainly conduct a fair amount of research on how to care for a mantis properly before acquiring one.
Unfortunately, we may never know how the actual myth was started or where, but regardless of the fact, the mantis is a fascinating creature indeed, with a rich history in many cultures. You may happen upon one in your yard, and find it sitting motionless for what seems like hours, yet you will be unable to deny your interest, always returning for another glimpse of what many think to be a divine insect.
And though you have now learned that it is not a crime to kill a mantis, I hope you will allow the mantis to set up residence in your yard if it desires. It is a mutually beneficial relationship.
