The Official Connecticut State Insect

Praying Mantis

The Praying Mantis, Connecticut’s state insect, is an iconic and fascinating creature. It is a large, long-bodied insect which has a triangular head and large eyes. Its name is derived from its distinct posture, which resembles a person in prayer. Praying mantises are stealthy predators, using their incredible camouflage and sharp vision to hunt and capture prey. They are also known for their ability to turn their heads almost 180 degrees to observe their surroundings.

In 1995, the Praying Mantis was adopted as the Connecticut state insect due to the work of a group of fourth-grade students from Easton, Connecticut. The students had been studying the insect and decided to propose it to the state legislature. After a successful campaign, the Praying Mantis was officially adopted as the state insect. It is a fitting symbol of Connecticut, as it is a hardy and resilient species, surviving the cold New England winters and the hot, humid summers. The Praying Mantis is a beloved figure of the state and a reminder of the dedication and hard work of the fourth-grade students who made it the official state insect.

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