Ghostly mantis

A few days ago, just in time for Halloween, I noticed this ghostly praying mantis, devoid of its innards. The work of some ghoulish fiend? Alas no, at least for Halloween fans. Rather, this is the result of a mantis molting, which it will do up to five times en route to adulthood. At least I hope that’s what it was.

6 thoughts on “Ghostly mantis”

naturebackin November 1, 2018 at 10:29 am

It does look rather ghostly. Amazing how the exoskeleton comes away in one complete piece; even the antennae and legs look to be complete.

LikeLiked by 1 person
1. Graham Post authorNovember 1, 2018 at 4:48 pm
  
  I know. I took me a few moments to realize it was, in effect, an empty shell. Initially, I just thought it was a dead mantis.
  
  LikeLiked by 1 person
Terri Webster Schrandt October 31, 2018 at 8:44 am

Truly amazing to see this! Happy Halloween Graham!

LikeLiked by 1 person
1. Graham Post authorOctober 31, 2018 at 4:33 pm
  
  Happy Halloween to you too. I’m heading out this evening to see Pink Martini in Waimea.
  
  LikeLiked by 1 person
  1. Terri Webster Schrandt November 1, 2018 at 11:14 am
    
    Hope it was fun!
    
    LikeLiked by 1 person
    1. Graham Post authorNovember 1, 2018 at 4:49 pm
      
      It was. They’re a great outfit to see live.
      
      LikeLiked by 1 person