European mantis vs Chinese mantis
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell a european mantis from a chinese mantis, and whether either one bites or stings.
European mantis
Mantis religiosa
Chinese mantis
Tenodera sinensis
≠The key differences
Generally larger (up to about 10 cm), tan with a green stripe along the front edge of the forewings, and lacks the black spot inside the front coxae.
Mantis religiosa is generally slimmer and has a characteristic dark spot on the upraised forelegs; Tenodera sinensis is usually larger and more robust with different wing venation.
⚖︎Side by side
| European mantis | Chinese mantis | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Non-toxic | Non-toxic |
| Size | About 45-75 mm body length (females usually larger than males) | 65-100 mm body length (females larger than males) |
| Colours | Green, Brown, Beige, Black, Yellow | Green, Brown, Tan |
| Family | Mantidae | Mantidae |
| Habitat | Meadows, gardens, hedgerows, shrubs and tall grasses—places with perches and abundant insect prey | Weedy fields, gardens, hedgerows, shrubs and tall vegetation where they can ambush prey. |
| Range | Native to Europe, parts of Asia and North Africa; established introduced populations in North America and other regions | Native to East Asia; introduced and established in much of eastern North America and parts of the western United States, and recorded in other regions via accidental or intentional release. |
| Active | Nymphs from late spring; adults from mid-summer until the first autumn frosts; mostly diurnal but can be seen at dusk | Active late spring through early autumn; peak adult activity in summer, largely diurnal but may be active at dusk. |
| Pest? | No | No |
🔍How to spot a european mantis
- Triangular head with large forward-facing eyes that can swivel independently from the body
- Raptorial front legs with spines used to grasp prey; legs folded in a "praying" posture when at rest
- Elongated prothorax (neck) and a long, tapered abdomen; females bulkier than males
- A black spot, often with a pale centre, on the inner side of each front coxa (the base of the raptorial leg) is the best field mark; body colour is green or brown
🔍How to spot a chinese mantis
- Large, elongated body with a distinct long 'neck' (prothorax) connecting head and body.
- Raptorial front legs held folded in a 'praying' posture with visible spines for grasping prey.
- Colour green, brown or tan, often matching surrounding vegetation; adults have visible wings covering the abdomen.
- Triangular, highly mobile head with large compound eyes that face forward.
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a european mantis and a chinese mantis?
Generally larger (up to about 10 cm), tan with a green stripe along the front edge of the forewings, and lacks the black spot inside the front coxae. Mantis religiosa is generally slimmer and has a characteristic dark spot on the upraised forelegs; Tenodera sinensis is usually larger and more robust with different wing venation.
Is a european mantis or a chinese mantis more dangerous?
European mantis: Non-toxic. Chinese mantis: Non-toxic. Not venomous. Chinese mantis are not venomous and pose little risk.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.