Praying Mantis - Bizarre Animal #3 (Illus. & PRNMK

This is the third in a series of "bizarre animal" swaps. These will be depicting real animals -- but ones that are almost fantasy in appearance or behavior. I am planning on picking a variety of mammals, insects, reptiles, birds, invetebrates, etc. over the course of this series.

The image size will be a standard ATC. I hope for a lot of participation in this swap. With that in mind you can portray the Praying Mantis as either an illustration or via any print-making method.

The praying mantis is a large insect found in the order Mantodea (Greek "prophet" and "form or shape"). I think all insects are pretty alien in appearance, but the praying mantis carries this to the extreme. It's long legs, extended body and thorax, large compound eyes, huge grasping forelegs, and extremely flexible head articulation (300 degrees of movement) make it an extraodinary predator.

The praying mantis is well known for some of it's unusual behaviors. When threatened it rears back on its hindlegs, spread its wings, hisses violently, and strikes out with its forelegs. In captivity, the female often engages in sexual cannibalism -- devouring the head of the copluating male. Because these insects have such acute vision, it is thought that the distractions of a laboratory environment might increase the occurance of this behavior -- it is seldom observed in the wild.

Specifics:

•1 ATC for 1 Partner

•Illustrations or print-making method of choice. Originals only please.

•Card backside should include artist's information, title, & date.

•Theme: Praying Mantis

•4.9+, no unexplained 3s or 1s

Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns.