Praying mantis named Czechia’s Insect of the Year as the species spreads across the country

The Czech Entomological Society has named the praying mantis Czechia’s Insect of the Year for 2026. Once found mainly in southern Moravia, this striking predator has spread across much of the country and is now turning up in places where people would hardly have expected to see it a few decades ago. Researchers are also asking the public to help track its spread, while keeping an eye on other mantis species that may soon reach Czechia.

I spoke with the society’s Petr Šípek and began by asking him why the praying mantis was chosen as Czechia’s Insect of the Year for 2026.

See more here.

Author: Ruth Fraňková