The Horn-winged Empusa (Empuza pennicornis Pallas) is a species of insect in the family Empusidae of the order Mantoptera. This species of empusa is considered endemic to Central Asia. It was listed in the Red Data Book of Turkmenistan in 1999, 2011, and 2024 as "endangered."

Outside of Turkmenistan, it is found in Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. This insect has a very distinctive appearance: its body length reaches 50-65 mm, and its coloration is yellow-green, typical of field plants. Its head has a prominent conical projection pointing upward. Its anterior surface reflects sunlight, which helps attract prey.

Empusa' habitats include mountain wormwood, areas with diverse herbaceous vegetation, and sandy desert areas with black saxaul. They are usually found on the stems and leaves of tall grasses. They are active at night and feed on insects.

According to the website of the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan, the species is being closely monitored in the country. In 2024, the empusa was recorded at an altitude of 2300 meters above sea level on Mount Dushak, and in 2025, at an altitude of over 1,200 meters above sea level on Murzedag. In the second ten days of June 2026, it was discovered near the Sekizyap River (location coordinates: N 38˚02.377', E 57˚47.031').

Information on the ecology and distribution of this species continues to be collected.

The Red Book contains recommendations for the implementation of necessary measures to protect the empusa, namely, strengthening the protection of its habitats and limiting the use of pesticides in pastures.

Empusa can approach people by clinging to clothing. In such cases, to avoid harming this rare insect, gently brush it off your clothing without causing harm to the mantis. Let's help protect this unique creature!