What is the reason for the invasion of mantises in Moscow?

The usual habitat for mantises is Africa, Canada, Australia, southern USA, Central Asia, Crimea, the Caucasus, the south of the middle Russia - Kursk, Belgorod, Bryansk, Orel. Currently, the movement of praying mantises is celebrated not only in Central Russia, but also in Europe, where they practically mastered the English Channel.

In addition, scientists observe the spreading of insects in the capital of Russia, the Voronezh region, in the Far East. What is the reason for the invasion of mantises in Moscow and other large cities? To understand this, let's imagine what this insect looks like.

Description

In nature there are about 3 thousand different kinds of mantis. But all unites one thing - the manner of folding the front limbs in a certain way that resembles a praying person. The mantis has only six legs. This insect is quite large, reaches a length of 11-12 centimeters. The head of the mantis is like a triangle, on which are perfectly developed eyes.

Sharp vision helps the insect to react lightly to the prey, which is served by smaller insects. Praying mantis can be called a chameleon. After all, he is able to change color according to his habitat. For example, an insect can repeat the color of fallen leaves or bright green grass.

Most people see green mantises, as most insects lurk in trees or in bushes. They are so immobile that it is difficult to notice them. They find themselves during the flight. It is noteworthy that only males fly. Female only occasionally flit from one branch to another.

These insects are innocuous enough, but they frighten people with their large size and unusual appearance. Perhaps, therefore, in the mass media one can find the phrase: "Mantis attacked Moscow". In fact, they are harmless. The inhabitants of the Caucasus and Crimea have long been not surprised by these insects and consider them to be ordinary representatives of cockroaches.

The reasons for the appearance of mantises in other places

Scientists-entomologists are unanimous in their opinion that finding "six-fingered" in the capital is a strange phenomenon, but it is quite understandable. The invasion of mantises in Moscow can be associated with significant climatic changes in nature. At the moment, this topic is given much attention, since it is considered topical.

For the first time, attention was drawn to the appearance of praying mantises in the Russian capital in 2010, when a softer winter waxed and warming was noted throughout the state. Another reason can be the appearance of various heat sources, to which the mantis fly. This is also promoted by: building material, with the help of which houses are insulated; Tiled stone, quickly heated in the sun. The technology is constantly being improved and, as you can see, it can influence the environment and its inhabitants.

Where did the mantises come from in Moscow?

Specialists in the field of entomology believe that the movement of these insects is, most likely, from the Crimea. They come from there, following the warm air currents. Mantis is a kind of living barometer. They move to where it is light and cozy. In addition, the invasion of mantises in Moscow and its region can be attributed to the fact that over the past 5 years, the number of intercity transportation by truck has increased.

Insects can come to a large city from the southern regions on these wagons, and then impress with their appearance of local residents and guests. Finally, we can assume that a couple of mantises can escape from the terrarium of an exotic lover and walk around the streets of Moscow.

It is interesting

It can be said that the invasion of mantises in Moscow led to the fact that people began to be interested in the distinctive features of these insects. For example, do you know how the "six-fingered" breeds? The period of their love games falls on August-September.

Unfortunately, for a male, the fervent novel ends tragically. After mating, a female specimen bites off his head and eats the trunk. Scientists believe that this behavior of female mantis is explained by natural necessity. They need protein, so males are in the diet of their food.

For a man, mantises do not pose any danger. On the contrary, eating different insects, they reduce the number of pests of agriculture. Therefore, if you see that praying mantises in Moscow on the street - do not be afraid of them, let them catch their prey!