I have never heard that about Praying Mantises. In high school biology we were required to do an insect collection, but were told that dragonflies, praying mantises, and one other that I can't remember, were such beneficial insects that we should capture they alive, show it to the biology teacher for credit, and then release the insect.

Dragonfly in my back yard, Los Angeles

roxsol, I'm always interested in farrier's work and sometimes watch youtube videos of them. So important for horses' health. What also strikes me is that farriers must have terrible back issues. Thanks for sharing that one.

Black & Gold building across from Bryant Park, NYC, NY.