Bruce was a South African Preying Mantis, non native to NZ. He adopted us in Auckland when he was just a nymph, taking up residence on bathroom shelf. His favoured spot was on the dental floss pot in front of the mirror. (Pictured below)
He joined us for the road trip South, riding shotgun with Pete in the VW. In his first months here he continued to grow and developed his flying skills. As is natural for a Mantis he mostly enjoyed soaking up the afternoon sun and hunting flies.
Dunedin climate was always going to be a challenge for Bruce, with winter slowly draining heat from everything Bruce required special care. In the last few weeks he has had the prime spot near the fire in the evening and a hot water bottle at night.
Bruce passed away peacefully last Wednesday morning. He was cremated ‘Viking Style’ on a burning raft after dusk that evening.
