Mantis in US

[I_want_hopei]

I learned that most insects except for few species such as Madagascar cockroach and and goliath beetle. But the question is mantis also permitted? I want to buy one orchid mantis and I am not sure if it is able to keep them in US.

 

[Oak]

I was wondering about this too. It seems like exotic mantis are not 100% legal but no one seems to bat an eye. However it's most likely due to the fact that they are predators which means they don't pose as a threat to agricultural crops in the U.S.

 

[kevink]

It is interesting, many sources for exotic mantids exist in the USA, I'm sure Oak is correct in saying they aren't perceived as a threat, besides

needing specialized care. I have never heard of a mantid infestation or outbreak.. only in the movies.

 

[Reyes]

I mean, I keep ghost, shield, and spiny flower mantises with no problem in the US. I doubt there are much illegal species to keep. You must do your research first before getting them.