Is It Actually Illegal To Kill A Praying Mantis In North Dakota?

This probably sounds like the most random, strange thing to even ask, but for years, rumors have been buzzing about whether or not you can kill a praying mantis. It's not just here in North Dakota; several other states have been brought into this debate: New York, Pennsylvania, and Montana. Today, we thought we would get to the bottom of it. Are there fines and penalties for killing this unique insect?

First things first, I had to look. Are there even praying mantises in North Dakota? - I've never seen one. As it turns out, there are. According to InsectIdentification.org, it is rare to spot one in our state, but they are present. The source says they are most active during the summer months.

(Also Read: These 10 Animals Are On North Dakota's Endangered Species List)

After hearing this rumor, we looked it up, fully expecting to find some North Dakota wildlife rule or law, but found nothing. As far as we can tell, there are no state or federal laws that protect these insects. It's just a one massive rumor. I could only guess this rumor started because so many people appreciate the uniqueness and rarity of this insect, so we kind of made them "unofficially protected".

Honestly, even if it were a law, we'd have questions: how do you prove someone maliciously killed one of these bugs? How do you enforce it? - It did seem silly, but you never know. There you go, rumor debunked.

Anyway, if you spend some time outside this summer, just know, if you squish a praying mantis, you will not end up in handcuffs or with a hefty fine, but you will likely get some side eye because they are pretty cool bugs, how dare you. Let them rip each other's heads off in peace.