Praying Mantis on My Window: Should I Move It?
Photographer Fiona found a praying mantis on her window three days ago, and while it initially started moving around the window when the weather was warmer, it is now staying in one spot. Fiona wonders if she should move it to a tree where it can find a better spot to survive the winter or lay her eggs.
As it turns out, Fiona's mantis is seeking out a warm sheltered spot, most likely due to the proximity of her window to the warmth inside the house. The temperature inside can be significantly warmer than the outside, making the mantis an easy target for a quick and comfortable shelter. Let's explore what steps Fiona could take to ensure the mantis's safety and survival.
Why Leave the Bug Alone?
Praying mantises are capable of finding their own warmth, and the warmth from the window is more than enough for the mantis. It is comfortable for the mantis to move around the window, as it allows it to hunt for any insects that may be attracted to the glass. Males typically have a life span of just about a year, and their survival does not depend on human intervention.
Understanding the Mantis's Winter Survival Strategy
During colder months, praying mantises seek out warm, sheltered spots to survive the winter. This behavior is common as the weather turns cold. Your window, being warmer due to the heat inside your house, provides the perfect conditions for the mantis to stay warm and continue its search for food.
Some mantises, like the female Fiona's, may lay their eggs in a safe spot in late autumn. Once the eggs are laid, the adult mantis usually does not survive the winter, leaving behind a group of eggs called an ovipositor that will hatch in spring.
Considering Moving the Mantis
Fiona is uncertain about moving the mantis, as she wonders if such a move would be beneficial. If you do consider moving the mantis, there are a few precautions to take. A sheltered area, such as an enclosed porch or a warm spot with a lightbulb, might be suitable. An incandescent bulb can provide heat and light, which may attract food for the mantis. A south-facing eave can also be a good choice, as it will receive more sunlight and warmth than other areas.
However, consider the risks when moving the mantis. Birds may snack on the mantis, and there is a risk of blowing it away in a wind. It's important to weigh these risks against the potential benefit of a better shelter.
A Personal Experience
Another user, Jane, shared her experience with a mantis last year. When the weather turned cold, she saved a female mantis and cared for it for four more months. Jane left the mantis to lay her eggs and ultimately passed away peacefully. She was still left with two egg sacks to ensure the population continued the following spring.
Jane's experience demonstrates that with proper care, a mantis can survive even in colder months. It is a small sacrifice to make for the benefit of these fascinating creatures.
If you decide to take care of the mantis, be sure to provide it with warmth, shelter, and its natural food sources. By doing so, you can help ensure its survival and the continuation of the mantis population in your area.