Lions, giraffe, and a tiny mantis.

I don't need to go far for a brush with nature. When I walk early on Sunday mornings, I often hear lions roaring. Kookaburra, too. One of my running routes passes a giraffe.

Ok, I live near a zoo.

But I can be charmed by the creatures in my backyard! On this particular day, I spotted a small patch of bright green peeking out from the woodchips and went in for a closer look.

It was a tiny praying mantis, and she was ready to take on anything, regardless of the size difference. You've got to admire that gutsiness.

I gently cupped her in my hand and allowed her to wander across my fingers as I observed her near. Then, "pop!" She jumped onto the ground cover and vanished. That was it.

I looked for her multiple times, but no luck. She's a master of disguise. Still, I loved the opportunity to meet her.