Hello! And thank you for submitting a question to Ask Extension,

Here is what I found out about Mantids: There are multiple colors and they can change color slightly (unlike a chameleon) depending upon the temperature, humidity and light of their surroundings of their habitat.

The habitat of the Mantis needs to match its color for its protection from predators and to be a skilled hunter. They also change color during molt. While only a few mantids can actually change color, most have coloring to adapt to their habitat.
Your mantis most likely has just molted-hence its tan coloring. It seems it found a great camouflage of wheat grass! It would then have turned green or brown to match the habitat. Mantids can molt or shed their skin seven times during a lifetime.

Here are a few other fun facts: Oregon’s most popular Mantis is the Chinese Mantis:Tenodera sinensis, it was introduced to the Americas on a ship. All mantids can turn their heads 180 degrees.
Thanks for the exceptional picture.

I’ve included a couple of references for you:

https://catalog.extension.oregonstate.edu/sites/catalog/files/project/pdf/ec1605.pdf
https://indianapublicmedia.org/amomentofscience/do-praying-mantises-change-color.php

Take care and thanks again for the question,
Jen, Master Gardener Trainee
Elizabeth Records (she/hers), Education Program Assistant 2
Community Horticulture & Master Gardener Volunteer Program
Oregon State University Extension Service | Linn & Benton County