The praying mantis is a common sight in gardens and yards across the United States, instantly recognizable by its distinctively folded front legs. This insect often appears to be in a meditative or “praying” posture, contributing to its unique and often revered status among homeowners. Finding one indoors or in an unwanted location naturally raises questions about its fate and legal standing. This article addresses the actual legal status of the mantis and provides actionable steps for a safe resolution.
Is the Praying Mantis a Protected Species
It is rumored that the praying mantis is a federally protected species and that killing one is illegal, but this is not supported by any specific statute in the United States. Federal and state wildlife protection laws do not list the common mantis species found across North America as endangered or protected. The misconception may have originated decades ago to discourage people from harming an insect widely seen as beneficial to the garden ecosystem.
The most frequently encountered species in the U.S., such as the Chinese mantis (Tenodera sinensis) and the European mantis (Mantis religiosa), are non-native introductions. These species were introduced decades ago and have since become naturalized. Since they are not native or federally threatened, they do not possess special legal protections. While some local jurisdictions might have unique ordinances, generally there are no legal consequences for eliminating a praying mantis.
Why Mantises are Valued in the Ecosystem
The primary reason many people choose not to harm a mantis is its role as a natural predator, though its effectiveness as a dedicated pest controller is often debated. Mantises are generalist, ambush hunters that wait patiently for prey before striking with their spiked, raptorial forelegs. Their diet is varied and includes many insects considered garden pests, such as flies, crickets, grasshoppers, and caterpillars.
However, their indiscriminate predatory nature means they will consume any arthropod they can subdue, including beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and ladybugs. Larger, non-native species like the Chinese mantis can grow up to five inches long and have been documented preying on small vertebrates like frogs, lizards, and hummingbirds. These larger, non-native mantises also pose a threat to smaller, native species like the Carolina mantis (Stagmomantis carolina).
The practice of selling mantis egg cases for biological pest control is often seen as a flawed strategy because of this non-selective diet. While they reduce the insect population, they do not specifically target harmful pests, making them less reliable than specialized predators. Homeowners who appreciate biodiversity often conserve them because their presence minimizes the need for chemical pesticides. The choice to protect a mantis is based on ecological principles and personal preference, not legal decree.
Safe Methods for Relocating a Mantis
If a praying mantis is found inside a home, the “cup and paper” technique is the best method for removal. This non-contact approach prevents injury to the insect and minimizes the risk of startling it into a defensive posture. To perform this, gently cover the mantis with a clear glass or plastic cup, carefully trapping it against the wall or floor.
Once secured, slowly slide a thin, stiff piece of paper or cardboard between the rim of the cup and the surface. This creates a temporary floor, allowing the mantis to be transported outside without being touched directly. Handling the insect minimally is important, as grabbing its body or legs can easily cause harm.
The mantis should be released into a suitable outdoor environment, ideally in an area with dense vegetation, such as a shrub, flower bed, or a tree a few feet off the ground. Avoid releasing it into tall grass or high-traffic areas like sidewalks. If mantises consistently appear indoors, the most effective deterrent is to ensure the home’s exterior is sealed by checking screens, door sweeps, and window frames for small gaps.