Also known as the European mantis, as it was accidentally introduced from southern Europe in 1899. The praying mantis feeds on other insects, including its own species and caterpillars. These insects are up to 2½ inches long and range from gray to green in color. The "praying" forelegs have spines on them to help catch the prey while the other four legs hold onto a twig. The eggs are laid in fall and are attached to twigs in a papier mâché-like case which contains bird-repellant.