Orchid Mantis

Hymenopus coronatus is a mantis from the tropical forests of Southeast Asia. It is known by various common names, including walking flower mantis, orchid-blossom mantis and (pink) orchid mantis. It is one of several species known as flower mantises, a reference to their unique physical form and behaviour, which often involves moving with a "swaying" motion, as if being "blown" in the breeze. The species has evolved to mimic orchid flowers as a hunting and camouflaging strategy, "hiding" themselves in plain view and preying upon pollinating insects that visit the blooms. They then grab their prey with sudden speed. Scientific Name: Hymenopus coronatus Range: SE Asia tropical rainforests Size: Females ~7 cm, males ~3 cm Status: Native ID Notes: Pink and white with petal-like leg lobes mimicking flower petals. Body shape and color exactly match local orchid species. Behavior / Notes: Most spectacular aggressive mimic known — even attracts MORE pollinators than real flowers, then eats them.