Cryptic Mantis (S. pretiosa)

The Cryptic Mantis (Sibylla pretiosa) is quite an odd looking mantis which is native to southern Africa. They can be very hard to make out when they are amongst surrounding sticks, foliage and lichen. They are a fairly small species, and can be fast when they want to be. They are generally more skittish than some other species, and suspicious of being handled at first.

These mantises can tolerate a fair range when it comes to temperature and humidity; however, they do best between 75°F - 85°F.  Ideally, humidity should stay in the range of 50% to 70% relative humidity (RH), as they are a sub-tropical species. These mantises are not very aggressive, and are fine being kept communally as long as regular food is offered. 

The mantises currently for sale are L2/L3. They are currently eating fruit flies, so be sure to have the proper prey items on hand when your mantis arrives.

For more information, check out our
Cryptic Mantis Caresheet.

THIS MANTIS IS NOT NATIVE TO THE U.S. AND IS NOT TO BE RELEASED OUTDOORS!