Praying mantises spotted in England for first time may have blown over from Europe'

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"The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.Your support makes all the difference. Praying mantises have been spotted twice in the wild in England for the first time, with experts suggesting they may have been blown over from mainland Europe."

"The stick insects were spotted in gardens near Truro and Mousehole in Cornwall, according to the Cornwall Wildlife Trust (CWT). The charity said the insects could have to Cornwall by strong winds, or been transported accidentally to the UK in someone's luggage. They added it is also possible that the insects are from a pet collection, though that was unlikely given they were spotted in different locations and nobody has claimed them."

The Independent sends journalists to cover major issues and relies on donations to fund free, on-the-ground reporting. The outlet avoids paywalls and asks supporters who can afford it to cover costs so reporting remains accessible to everyone. Praying mantises have been spotted twice in the wild in England, with sightings in gardens near Truro and Mousehole in Cornwall. The Cornwall Wildlife Trust said the insects may have been blown from mainland Europe, transported in luggage, or escaped from a pet collection, and noted breeding populations on the Isle of Wight and Channel Islands but not mainland England. European praying mantises are about three inches long, eat insects such as crickets and flies, and are not dangerous to humans.

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