European mantis vs Mediterranean mantis
These two are easy to mix up. Here's how to tell an European mantis from a Mediterranean mantis, and whether either one bites or stings.
European mantis
Mantis religiosa
Mediterranean mantis
Iris oratoria
≠The key differences
Mantis religiosa usually lacks the large rounded hindwing eyespots of Iris oratoria and instead has a black, often white-centred spot on the inner side of each front leg base; it is also larger.
⚖︎Side by side
| European mantis | Mediterranean mantis | |
|---|---|---|
| To humans | Non-toxic | Non-toxic |
| Size | About 45-75 mm body length (females usually larger than males) | 4-6 cm body length |
| Colours | Green, Brown, Beige, Black, Yellow | Green, Brown, Beige, White |
| Family | Mantidae | Irisidae |
| Habitat | Meadows, gardens, hedgerows, shrubs and tall grasses—places with perches and abundant insect prey | Open, sunny locations with vegetation: grasslands, scrub, gardens, field margins and Mediterranean shrub; tolerates dry conditions. |
| Range | Native to Europe, parts of Asia and North Africa; established introduced populations in North America and other regions | Native to the Mediterranean basin (southern Europe, North Africa, parts of the Middle East) and introduced populations in parts of North America (southern USA, California) and other warm regions. |
| Active | Nymphs from late spring; adults from mid-summer until the first autumn frosts; mostly diurnal but can be seen at dusk | Spring to early autumn; primarily diurnal but may be active at dusk. |
| Pest? | No | No |
🔍How to spot an 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 Mediterranean mantis
- Look for medium size (4-6 cm) and elongated prothorax with folded raptorial forelegs.
- Flash of the hind wings reveals a pair of rounded eyespot markings — distinctive for Iris oratoria.
- Colour varies between green and brown with mottling; females are stouter, males more slender and better fliers.
- Oothecae are foamy, attached to twigs or stems and persist through winter.
?Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an European mantis and a Mediterranean mantis?
Mantis religiosa usually lacks the large rounded hindwing eyespots of Iris oratoria and instead has a black, often white-centred spot on the inner side of each front leg base; it is also larger.
Is an European mantis or a Mediterranean mantis more dangerous?
European mantis: Non-toxic. Mediterranean mantis: Non-toxic. Not venomous. Not dangerous to people.
Identification from photos is never certain: don't handle insects you can't identify, and get medical advice for bites, stings or allergic reactions.