Hooded (leaf) Mantis, Costa Rica

Among the better camouflage jobs I’ve seen in some time is this bug.  When I first spotted it, it took me a few seconds to register that I was not looking at an unusually shaped leave, but rather an insect.

07 Turtle Bay Resort (194)

It is a type of praying mantis known as shield mantis, hooded mantis, or leaf mantis.  The characteristic “praying” pincers are neatly tucked under the thorax and can not be see from this photo.

An excellent job of mimicry.

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