Colombian shield mantis facts for kids

The Choeradodis columbica, also known as the Columbian shield mantis, is a special kind of praying mantis. It gets its name "shield mantis" because of its unique, flat, and wide body shape, which looks a bit like a shield. This amazing insect lives in Colombia, a country in South America.

What is a Shield Mantis?

Shield mantises are part of a larger group called praying mantises. They are known for their very flat bodies, which help them blend in perfectly with their surroundings. Unlike many other mantises that are long and thin, the Columbian shield mantis is wide and leaf-like. This shape is a fantastic way for them to hide from both predators and prey.

Where Does It Live?

The Columbian shield mantis is native to Colombia. This means it naturally lives there and is found nowhere else in the wild. Colombia has many different types of environments, from rainforests to mountains. These mantises usually live in tropical or subtropical areas where there is plenty of plant life. They often hide among leaves and branches, waiting for their next meal.

What Does It Eat?

Like all praying mantises, the Columbian shield mantis is a predator. This means it hunts and eats other insects. They are very patient hunters. They will sit perfectly still, camouflaged against a leaf or branch, waiting for an unsuspecting insect to come close. When an insect, like a fly or a small beetle, gets within reach, the mantis will quickly snatch it with its powerful front legs. These legs have sharp spines that help them hold onto their prey.

Amazing Camouflage

One of the most incredible things about the Columbian shield mantis is its camouflage. Its flat body and green or brown color help it look exactly like a leaf. Some even have patterns that look like leaf veins! This amazing disguise helps them in two main ways:

• It protects them from animals that might want to eat them, like birds or lizards.
• It allows them to sneak up on their prey without being noticed.

When they are perfectly still, it's almost impossible to spot a Columbian shield mantis, even if you are looking right at it!

See also

• List of mantis genera and species