23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Praying Mantis, Caumsett State Park.

While starting my walk along the edge of the marsh, this little guy, or gal, jumped onto my arm. Prominently seen on the tail end are a pair of sensory receptors called cerci. They help in hunting and avoiding predators.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2025
Date Uploaded: 11.2025
Photo Location: Lloyd Harbor, New York, United States of America
Camera: Galaxy S23 FE
Copyright: © Peter Teves