EN
The European Mantis (Mantis religiosa L.) is the only member of the Mantodea in Poland. Although it does not require active protection, the species is under strict protection by a regulation of the Minister of the Environment. In addition, Mantis religiosa is entered into the Polish Red Book of Animals (i.e. a list of threatened species) with the status EN. Praying Mantises are not well known in Poland, and as such, arouse great curiosity wherever encountered. In the absence of adequate knowledge about these insects and about their legal status, they are often removed from their natural habitat and taken home or to a veterinary clinic. This article describes the most important issues regarding the protection of Mantis religiosa, the dispersion of this species in Poland, and its developmental cycle. This information may prove useful to all who come into contact with these insects; including veterinarians to whom they are occasionally brought. It is important that the correct information regarding European mantises is available to the general public, as well as to the veterinarians, so that they know how to deal with the specimens found.