Germany sees record praying mantis sightings amid heatwaves
Germany is experiencing record numbers of praying mantis sightings in 2026, a phenomenon linked to an exceptionally hot summer and successive heatwaves. The species, Mantis religiosa, thrives in sunny, dry habitats.
The German Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union (NABU) is monitoring these populations to understand how climate change is affecting their distribution. Researchers are particularly interested in whether metapopulations in southwestern and eastern Germany are merging. Following a warm spring, significant numbers were recorded in the state of Baden-Württemberg.
Originally from Africa, the praying mantis has been native to the Mediterranean for approximately 10,000 years. NABU encourages citizens to report sightings, ideally with photographs, via their online Naturgucker page to assist in ongoing research.
Entities
Baden-Württemberg · German Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Union · Mantis religiosa
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The praying mantis is originally from Africa. www.euronews.com · gr.euronews.com · pt.euronews.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] The praying mantis migration to Europe occurred approximately 10,000 years ago. www.euronews.com · gr.euronews.com · pt.euronews.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Large numbers of praying mantises were recorded in the German state of Baden-Württemberg following a warm spring. www.euronews.com · gr.euronews.com · pt.euronews.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Germany is seeing record numbers of praying mantis sightings in 2026. www.euronews.com · gr.euronews.com · pt.euronews.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Male praying mantises grow up to 6 cm, while females can reach 8 cm in length. www.euronews.com · gr.euronews.com · pt.euronews.com