16-11-2020 MONTE CORONA, VALENCIA - EMPUSID MANTIS (EMPUSA PENNATA)

The Conehead Mantis (Empusa pennata) is a slender, plant-mimicking insect found in the dry scrublands and grasslands of the Mediterranean. Recognizable by its distinct crown-like head protrusion, it is an ambush predator that overwinters as a nymph before reaching adulthood in the spring.

Physical Characteristics

The Cone: Both sexes possess a tall, cone-shaped extension from their crown, giving them an alien-like appearance.

Sexual Dimorphism: Females are larger (reaching up to 10 cm). Males are smaller, slimmer, and feature distinct, feathery antennae.

Camouflage: They have cryptic coloration (shades of brown, green, or pink) that allows them to blend flawlessly into dry vegetation and twigs.

Habitat & Distribution

Range: Native to the Western Mediterranean basin, they are widely distributed in Spain, Portugal, southern France, and North Africa.Environment: They thrive in arid, open landscapes with perennial herbs, scrub, and low shrubs.