**Description:** The native praying mantis of the region; smaller and more camouflaged than the Chinese variety.
**Size:** 2 to 2.5 inches long.
**Sexual Dimorphism:** Females are typically larger and heavier with shorter wings, while males are slender and capable of strong flight.
**Behavior:** Highly efficient ambush predators. Their egg cases (ootheca) are flat and elongated compared to the round cases of non-native species.
**Habitat:** Meadows and shrubby forest edges; perfectly blended with native foliage.