Praying Mantis II

“For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose heart is loyal to Him.  2 Chronicles 16:9

A song of ascents. I lift up my eyes to the mountains–where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip–he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you–the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm–he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore. Psalm 121:1-8 NIV

Praying mantis have always fascinated me. Perhaps this is because they are not part of my common outdoor experience around home. I sometimes go years without seeing one. Then I’ll see two or three in a month or so. Or maybe it is because I don’t know of many other insects quite like them.

A praying mantis can move its head 180 degrees, and I have read where they are the only insect able to do so. That means there is little use trying to sneak up on one from behind! They have a total of five eyes, the two larger ones on either side, and three small ones near the top middle of the head. The two larger eyes are called compound eyes. This gives the mantis stereo vision, resulting in depth perception, which is vital for their effectiveness as predators.

Praying mantis don’t usually chase after prey. Instead, they wait for long periods of time for their prey to come to them. Their special vision allows them to see the slightest movement around them extremely well. They then reach out their long front legs to grasp the unsuspecting insect so quickly that the human eye can barely see the movement.

In late summer or early fall, the female praying mantis lays eggs and excretes a protective covering around them – please see Praying Mantis I – Egg Casing.

The above Scriptures tell us that the Lord has eyes too. He is seeking those who are loyal to Him, so that He can show Himself strong on their behalf. This is a powerful promise for us all. If you are not sure how to have a relationship with the Creator of the universe, please see Got God?

Hope you have a great day.