Praying mantis species spotted in southwest England for first time

Cornwall Wildlife Trust (CWT) have reported that two recent sightings of the European praying mantis had been recorded in gardens near Truro and Mousehole.

The sightings mark the first records of this particular species of mantis living in Cornwall, and the charity have said it believes the mantises might have been blown over to the south west of England on strong winds or "escaped" from someone's pet collection.

They might have even “hitchhiked” their way here in someone’s luggage.

The European praying mantis is about three inches long and they eat a variety of insects such as crickets and flies and are not a threat to humans.

A spokesperson for the Trust said: "The European praying mantis is native to southern Europe but appears to be moving north, considered a 'climate migrant'.

"There are currently breeding populations of mantis on the Isle of Wight and the Channel Islands, so as temperatures continue to rise, it seems it’s only a matter of time before they colonize mainland Britain."

Cornwall Wildlife Trust are asking anybody who spots one to record their sightings via their website in order to help them to improve our understanding of wildlife.