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

15th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Natural World
Los Angeles Orchid Praying Mantis

I found it outside in my backyard with my mom and grabbed my mom's Lumix camera. When I came closer the beautiful Mantis put up his arms. When you look at the photo, you can see the details of his eyes and that he had his mouth open showing his teeth! The Orchid Praying Mantis is native to Southeastern Asia - how did it get to Los Angeles!

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 09.2017
Date Uploaded: 09.2017
Photo Location: Encino, California, United States of America
Camera: DMC-ZS100
Copyright: © Ava Browne