The habitual habitat of mantises isAfrica, Canada, Australia, southern regions of the USA, Central Asia, Crimea, the Caucasus, the south of the middle Russia - Kursk, Belgorod, Bryansk, Orel. Currently, the movement of mantises is observed not only in Central Russia, but also in Europe, where they practically mastered the English Channel.
In addition, scientists observe the resettlementinsects in the capital of Russia, Voronezh region, in the Far East. What is the reason for the invasion of mantises in Moscow and other large cities? To understand this, let's imagine what this insect looks like.
In the nature there are about 3 thousanddifferent kinds of mantis. But all unites one thing - the manner of folding the forelimbs in a certain way, which resembles a praying person. The mantis has only six legs. This insect is quite large, reaches a length of 11-12 centimeters. The head of the mantis is like a triangle, on which are perfectly developed eyes.
Acute vision helps the insect lightning fastreact to prey, which is served by smaller insects. Mantis can be called a chameleon. After all, he is able to change color according to his environment. For example, an insect can repeat the color of fallen leaves or bright green grass.
Most people see green mantises, sincemost often insects lurk on trees or in bushes. They are so immobile that it is difficult to notice them. They discover themselves during the flight. It is noteworthy that only men fly. Female only occasionally flit from one branch to another.
These insects are innocuous enough, but theirlarge size and unusual appearance frighten people. Perhaps, therefore, in the mass media one can find the phrase: "Mantis attacked Moscow". In fact, they are harmless. The inhabitants of the Caucasus and Crimea have long been not surprised by these insects and consider them to be ordinary representatives of cockroaches.
Scientists-entomologists are unanimous in their opinion aboutthat the finding of "six-fingered" in the capital - a strange phenomenon, but quite understandable. The invasion of mantises in Moscow can be associated with significant climatic changes in nature. At the moment, this topic is given much attention, since it is considered topical.
For the first time drew attention to the appearance of mantisesin the Russian capital in 2010, when a softer winter was issued and warming was observed throughout the state. Another reason can be the appearance of various heat sources, to which the mantis fly. This is also facilitated by: building material, with the help of which the houses are insulated; tiled stone, quickly heated in the sun. The technology is constantly being improved and, as you can see, it can influence the environment and its inhabitants.
Specialists in the field of entomology believe thatthe movement of these insects is, most likely, from the Crimea. They come from there, following the warm air flows. Mantis is a kind of living barometer. They move to where it is light and cozy. In addition, the invasion of mantises in Moscow and its region can be attributed to the fact that over the past 5 years the number of intercity transportation by truck has increased.
Insects can come to a large city fromsouthern regions on these wagons, and then impress with their appearance of local residents and guests. Finally, we can assume that a couple of mantises can escape from the terrarium of a lover of exoticism and walk around the streets of Moscow.
We can say that the invasion of mantises in Moscowled to the fact that people began to be interested in the distinctive features of these insects. For example, do you know how the "six-fingered" multiply? The period of their love games falls on August-September.
Unfortunately, for a male an ardent romance endstragically. After pairing, the female takes a bite of his head and eats the trunk. Scientists believe that this behavior of female mantis is explained by natural necessity. They need protein, so males are in the diet of their food.
For a man, mantises do not represent anydanger. On the contrary, eating different insects, they reduce the number of pests of agriculture. Therefore, if you see that praying mantises in Moscow on the street - do not be afraid of them, let them catch their prey!
