Yes, you might want to reach for the can of pesticide upon spotting one of these not-from-this-world creatures, but that would be a grave mistake. Praying mantises are perhaps one of the best insects to have in your garden. Why? They are killing machines! They eat just about all those pesky insects that destroy your plants.

If you ever do come across a mantis, do yourself a favor and get a little close to it — not too close — but close enough to watch it in action. Besides having two arms that it uses to catch prey, the praying mantis is the only insect that can move its head in all directions, making it the insect that acts most "human." An ancient Chinese monk was so impressed with the mantis's sleek movements that he created a martial art move based on the mantis's poses. It's still taught today.