The State Insect The European or "Praying" Mantis The European
"praying" mantis (family: Mantidae, order: Orthoptera)
officially became the State Insect on October 1, 1977. The name
"mantis" (derived from the Greek word for "prophet" or
"diviner") appropriately described the mantis' distinctive habit
of standing motionless on four hind legs, with the two highly
specialized forelegs raised in an attitude of meditation. The
European mantis is not native to Connecticut. It originated in
Northern Africa, Southern Europe, and temperate areas of Asia.
These mantis can be found, however, throughout the state from
early May or June until the cold weather sets in, when they die
rapidly. Harmless to humans, and averaging 2-2 1/2 inches in
length, this small green or brown insect feeds on aphids, flies,
grasshoppers, small caterpillars and moths. Although probably
not a significant factor in biological control, mantis are
beneficial insects for farmers and are therefore symbolic
reminders of the importance of the natura