The spined dwarf mantis was only ever collected once in the Tolentino region of Italy in 1871. Its small size and ability to camouflage would have made it extremely difficult to capture or observe. It wasn’t even identified as a unique species until 1963 when Alfred Kaltenbach realized the solo specimen had unique genitalia, making it a distinct species from other dwarf mantises. Many attempts have been made to relocate the spined dwarf mantis since its extinction with no results. The spined dwarf mantis probab;y went extinct due to habitat destruction. Since it most likely couldn’t fly, habitat fragmentation would have been a genetic bottleneck for the species. Although Jurassic Park is fiction, scientists are working on several de-extinction projects. In fact, in 2003 scientists did bring back the extinct Pyrenean ibex, a type of wild goat, for 7 minutes before it died, showing de-extinction is possible. The spined dwarf mantis would probably not be a good candidate unless genetic material could be used from the one specimen that is well over 100 years old. There are efforts throughout Europe, including Italy to help restore habitat and native species to their original wild ranges. Organizations like Rewilding Europe are currently working with governments to set aside land and create National Parks. Rewilding Europe is currently working on rebuilding 10 native environmental regions in Italy. There are currently 8 projects working to reintroduce native wildlife into their native regions of Italy including the griffon vulture, bald ibis, and Alpine lynx. If the spined dwarf mantis was brought back, would it be able to return to its native hunting grounds in Tolentino, Italy?