A recent winter walk revealed several mantis pods (ootheca) in Tall Pines State Preserve. I’ve never seen a pod as secure as this one atop a tall meadow tree. I don’t think a mouse, squirrel or bird would be able to hold on long enough to ravage the pod for food.
In past years, winter would find me actively searching out mantis pods to place in my garden as free insect control. I’ve stopped the hunt after reading several articles about praying mantids capturing small birds. Now an inner dilemma will arise when I spy a mantis in my gardens. Do I leave the predator or carry it off into the woods and away from the hummingbird/butterfly plants I grow in my garden? I know the choice I will make now and in the future…I will carry them away. The hummingbirds and butterflies will have my protection. It’s funny how your perspective changes when you find out more facts than you wanted to know.
Mantis pods also fall victim to predatory creatures. This pod was probably eaten by a hungry mouse or bird.
Today’s post is part of Jo’s Monday Walk.
MINDING MY P'S WITH Q 
Oh goodness…I had no idea.
LikeLike
I know…it’s horrifying. To think of how many years I’ve brought the pods to my yard on purpose. They are even sold…oh my.
LikeLiked by 1 person
The vicious cycle of life in the wild. Know Mantua well from years gone by.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I find them fascinating, but I certainly don’t want butterflies, lady bugs and especially hummingbirds to fall into their grip.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I guess nature has it all worked out, in her own way. All a bit daunting, sometimes 🙂 🙂 Thanks for the share.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes…it’s cringe-worthy that an insect can take down a bird…especially one that moves so fast.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Pingback: Jo’s Monday walk : Boa Vista | restlessjo