As an entomologist with a focus on insect behavior and development, I can provide you with an informed answer to your question about the flight capabilities of baby praying mantises.

Praying mantises, which belong to the order Mantodea, exhibit a variety of flight capabilities depending on their stage of development and species. Adult mantises are generally capable of flight, as they have fully developed wings that allow them to fly in search of food, mates, or to escape predators. However, the flight ability of baby mantises, also known as nymphs, is more nuanced.

Many baby mantises are not capable of flight when they first hatch from the egg case. Their wings, if present at all, are underdeveloped and not suited for sustained flight. As they grow and molt, their wings may develop further, but even then, not all mantis species are strong fliers. Some species of mantises have reduced wings or are entirely flightless, especially in the nymph stage.

In summary, while some adult mantises are proficient fliers, baby praying mantises typically do not have the ability to fly, at least not immediately after hatching. Their flight capabilities, if any, develop over time as they grow and molt.

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Fruit Fly Cultures ~ The first type of feeder insects you will need to feed your mantis is the WINGLESS fruit fly species. ... You just keep them at room temperature (about 72 degrees) One culture is enough to feed up to 20 baby mantids for about 2 - 4 weeks!read more >>