Trying to copy anyone, it just so happens that we seem to come upon the same subject matter relatively close. So, here's my first attempt at a mantis.

KM 5D
Tamron 300mm
26mm kenko tube

You didn't think I just shot one did you?

I assume you are talking about The Beast! Made me laugh regardless.

These are really something. The second image, from top down, is really great. I just think that is great. The eyeball is tremendous. All are so sharp. Nice job!!

Horrible creature, but nice shots.

CF

Thanks CF. Perhaps these are decent enough to repair the damage of my two previous posts... :p

Nice job Payn

LOL! I love the two shots against the blue sky. Those "expressions" are great!

On those two, I might have suggested shifting to your left a few inches to put the "hole" of the leaf (where the stem is) dead center on the mantis's abdomen. It might not have worked but leaf veins could have made interesting leading lines.

Nice job trying different angles. Nice to see some tube work too.