First Mantis Exhibition in Czechia Opens in Chomutov

The zoo in the Czech town of Chomutov has opened the first mantis exhibition in Czechia, where visitors can see several exotic species of these insects on display in terrariums.

According to the zoo's zoologist, one of the most fascinating exhibits is Hierodula pulchripes, a large mantis with a striking purple sheen on its wings and legs. The specialist noted that this species is rarely found in collections and tends to draw particular attention from visitors. The terrariums also feature the so-called crowned mantis, which many visitors consider the most beautiful mantis species of all.

Among the exhibits is also the only mantis species found in the wild in Czechia — the European mantis (Czech: kudlanka nábožná). The Czech Entomological Society named it Insect of the Year. According to the zoo, climate warming could bring two more mantis species to Czechia in the future. The European mantis's range has already expanded — once found only in the south of the country, it is now also spotted in the Ústí nad Labem Region.

Zoo director Lukáš explained that the exhibition aims to showcase the diversity of the animal kingdom to the public and highlight the zoo's conservation projects. He noted that while mammals and birds make up a large part of the zoo's collection, the institution also wants to show visitors just how fascinating the world of invertebrates, reptiles and amphibians can be. The zoo plans to hold further short-term themed exhibitions, as well as convert the building of a former tavern into a café with public restrooms, with staff apartments to be built on the upper floor.

Around Prague, based on reporting by ekolist.cz