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

17th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
A Praying Mantis Asserting its Boundaries

Embroiled in a misunderstanding with a praying mantis. Erin: I am going to remove you from the rooftop of my car to a place of safety. Praying Mantis: Step back human. I will hop away onto your windshield. Erin: That is not a safe place for you either. Praying Mantis: Go away human. I will hop onto the driveway in the path of your tires. Erin: I will move you to a safe place, so I don't run you over. Praying Mantis: I will attack and jab at you with my claws. Erin: Please, I cannot handle running you over. Praying Mantis: I will fight you! Erin: Okay, I will drive under a tree and scrap the top of my car with branches to avoid squashing you with my tires! You win!

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 09.2019
Date Uploaded: 10.2019
Photo Location: Chico, California, United States of America
Camera: iPhone 6 Plus
Copyright: © Erin Lassiter