Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
A Mother's Shelter

Sensing danger, the mantis mother opened its arms and spread its wings immediately like a protective shield over a bunch of tiny eggs on the dry branch. It looked like the mantis turned into a guardian, standing strong to keep the eggs safe. With its wings wide open, the mantis made a leafy wall, hiding the eggs from anyone who might be watching. The way its wings moved wasn't just to protect itself, but it was like the mantis was being a brave mom, making sure its babies stayed safe from harm.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Pahang, Malaysia
Camera: NIKON D850
Copyright: © Lam Soon Tak