Rain Beetle Hunter vs Mediterranean Mantis
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Rain Beetle Hunter | Mediterranean Mantis |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Calosoma cancellatum | Iris oratoria |
| Order | Coleoptera | Mantodea |
| Family | Carabidae | Mantidae |
| Size | 18-25 mm | 40-60 mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Heathland |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | North America, from Canada to Mexico | Southern Europe, North Africa, Western United States |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Rain Beetle Hunter
A medium to large caterpillar hunter with dark elytra marked by rows of rectangular pits giving a grid-like appearance. It is one of the most common Calosoma species across North American prairies.
Did You Know?
It emerges in massive numbers after rain events on the Great Plains, earning the nickname rain beetle, and can be found running across roads in huge aggregations.
Mediterranean Mantis
A medium-sized mantis with striking eyespots on its hindwings used to startle predators. It is native to the Mediterranean but established in the western United States.
Did You Know?
When threatened, it flashes vivid purple and black eyespots on its hindwings to scare predators.