Lichen mantis (Liturgusa sp.), Finca Heimatlos, Ecuador

Here's another example of only figuring out what you photographed when you get back home. During night tours I often see tiny katydid nymphs on trees, superficially looking similar to this photo. As they're so common, you soon dismiss them in search of more interesting targets.

I'm glad I captured at least one of them, as it turns out to be something else entirely. This is a mantis in the Liturgusa genus, nicknamed "Bark mantis" or "Lichen mantis". They're tiny and unique in their behavior. Unlike other mantises, they do not ambush prey, they actively run and chase it.

The lesson learned: always walk the forest with fresh eyes. Your experience "filter" is overrated.