RIP Matty

Matty 2009-2010

It is with a heavy heart that I must report the passing of Matty the Praying Mantis.

Matty, a Peacock Mantis who developed wings after his final molt, reached the age of roughly one year before being found "legs in the air" at the bottom of his enclosure. He lived a humble life, feeding only on fruit flies and crickets, and Cath's fingers too whenever the opportunity arose. Not camera shy, Matty was a responsive and willing model for macro photography. Despite his name, it is widely rumored that Matty was actually a girl.

We will miss you Matty - at least until your replacement arrives. To honor your memory, Catherine will mount you on a piece of cardboard and display you in her entomological cabinet.