

The California Praying Mantis was completed sometime in 2005. The digital tinting was added in 2007 or so, after obtaining permission from the owner of the photograph. I believe I had mislabeled this as a Mantis religiosa I believe this is actually a specimen of Stagmomantis californica. Please feel free to shoot me an email if I've made a mistake.
The California Praying Mantis - or California Mantis - is member of family Mantidae. They are very slender and grow to about 5/8-5 7/8 inches long (15-150 mm) They are native to the chaparral, deserts, scrublands and dry coastal areas of the Western United States from Texas and Colorado, west to California. The are formidable predators of other insects, including flies, bees, wasps, butterflies, caterpillars which they tear apart using their strong mouthparts. They are also very quick in their attacks, and their victims are often unaware of the presence of the mantis, which will sit motionless unless the prey comes into range. They are the only insect that is able to turn its head.
Description: Fine art illustration of a California Praying Mantis. The print is hand-signed by the artist and is guaranteed to arrive in perfect condition. The reproduction of this original pen and ink drawing is done on high quality acid-free archival paper. Call 1 800-913-7906 for more information or to order by phone. Click here for shipping info.
The image is available for stock art illustration. Dealer inquires welcome.
California Praying Mantis Art Print
8"x10" (20.3 x 25.4cm) - $14.95
11"x14" (27.9 x 35.5cm) - $21.95
Designers:
A high res digital version of this image may be purchased and downloaded. The artwork may also be licensed for commercial use such as advertising, packaging, displays and other printed materials. Please review the license agreement and call the artist at 1 800 913-7906 for more information.
Class: Insecta
Order: Dictyoptera
Family: Mantidae
Genus: Stagmomantis
Species: S. Californica


