Leaf Mantid

Description:

Large (body length 44 mm). Sexes differ in appearance.Males slender and mottled brown with dark shoulders and darker cross on hind wings. Females heavier, with triangular lateral flanges on pro-thorax and abdomen and no cross on fore wings. Head has long, erect, wavy dorsal projection. Legs ornamented with prominent leaf-like lobes. Egg case long, flattened and narrow.

Habitat:

Subtropical vegetation and along forest margins.

Notes:

Biology: Superb mimic of dead leaves, remaining motionless while waiting for prey to come within grasp. May make swaying movements to mimic wind-blown vegetation.