<p><b>Status: Not Assessed</b></p>
<p>When it comes to mantis mating, it appears that size matters. Female mantises are known for decapitating and eating males during mating, but studies suggest only one in six males may meet this fate. Those that do are typically smaller individuals selectively targeted by very hungry females—a predatory act that occurs outside of mating as well. Photographed in Lincoln, Nebraska.</p>
<p><a href="http://national-geographic.cafepress.com/art.1713764966?substrate=Mounted%20Print" target="_blank">Buy a print</a> | <a href="http://www.natgeocreative.com/photography/1173482" target="_blank">License this photo</a></p>
Praying Mantis
Status: Not Assessed
When it comes to mantis mating, it appears that size matters. Female mantises are known for decapitating and eating males during mating, but studies suggest only one in six males may meet this fate. Those that do are typically smaller individuals selectively targeted by very hungry females—a predatory act that occurs outside of mating as well. Photographed in Lincoln, Nebraska.
9 Animals That Are Stone-Cold Killers
Cannibalism among animals is fairly uncommon, but these species are known to eat their own kind. Check out these photos of animal cannibals from the National Geographic Photo Ark.
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