What is a Good Beginner Mantid.?

[pdm]

I am looking to get my first mantis and was looking for some feedback. I was looking at the ghost, dead leaf & violin mantids.


pdm

 

[Techuser]

I think hierodula are the easier mantids

 

[padkison]

I've had good luck with both African Budwings and Wide Arm mantids. They have both been hardy and are aggressive eaters. They are more interesting looking than Hierodula species IMO.

 

[DavidRS]

Are any mantids communal?

 

[TNeal]

There is no such thing as a communal mantis. There are a couple of species that are less agressive but over all they are canabulistic. I would recommend going with Chinese Mantids as a first species. They are hardy, common and very cheap. I am currently raising many L3 nymphs. They are fascinating and growing like weeeds.

 

[pdm]

ok thanks.

I have read that mantids bite/pinch when handled, is this correct?

pdm

 

[TNeal]

I have never been bitten by a mantid, but I have been pinched by one. It was nothing.

The largest beginner mantis I believe is the chinese. They grow up to 5 inches.

Tom

 

[roach dude]

I was just thinking about getting a mantid as a photograph subject aswell as a great pet, and was wondering ( apart from apperance and all) which are the lease skitty, and most calm when handled. So that they will stay in one place for a photo.

;P cheers;P

 

[TNeal]

Again,

I would go with the chinese mantid. They are not skittish at all. They love to sit on your hand or wherever and just watch you and whats going on around them. Their size, stature and demenor make them excellent pets and photo subjects.

Tom

 

[pdm]

Where would one get a chinese mantid from?

 

[TNeal]

I have some for sale. Check the sale adds here on Arachnoboard.

Tom

 

[crashergs]

mantids

how much for one?

 

[TNeal]

They are $2.00 for one or 6 for $10.00.

 

[dtknow]

I've had good luck with both African Budwings and Wide Arm mantids. They have both been hardy and are aggressive eaters. They are more interesting looking than Hierodula species IMO.

I find that interesting. Are Hierodula really that impressive sizewise? It is true they do not look much different from the Chinese mantids we have here.

What about Miomantis?

 

[roach dude]

How big are the ones your selling for 2.00?

 

[TNeal]

They are L3 & L4. Around an inch or slightly bigger.

 

[danny7499]

Whats the deal with Mantids and California now. My reptile place doesnt carry them anymore and I remember some hoopla, not too long ago

 

[TNeal]

They are an inch or so.

 

[roach dude]

wicked... dont spose you ship to britian.. if so do you cahrge more yea?