Tiger beetles are fascinating insects known for their unique hunting habits and striking appearance. Found across the globe, these captivating creatures are known to inhabit various environments where they can freely roam in search of their prey.
In general, you’ll find most of the 2,760 tiger beetle species living on the ground, where they run and stop in search of tiny insects and spiders to eat. They often inhabit sandy areas such as shores of rivers and streams, and some species are more active during sunny days while others emerge during dusk or nighttime.
These remarkable beetles have adapted to various habitats around the world, from dry deserts to wetlands, ensuring their survival and thriving in various ecosystems. As you explore different regions, keep an eye out for the colorful tiger beetles scurrying across the ground, showcasing their agility and unique hunting skills.
What is a Tiger Beetle?
Tiger beetles belong to the family Cicindelidae, existing in over 2,600 known species worldwide. Typically, they are classified within the larger family Carabidae (ground beetles). Different species belong to several genera, with Cicindela being one of the most common.
These beetles are known for their powerful mandibles, or jaws, capable of delivering a strong bite. Their slender, long legs allow them to move rapidly, while their bulging eyes and antennae help them find prey. Some of the physical characteristics of tiger beetles include:
- An exoskeleton that varies in color from blue and purple to light tan
- Wing covers (elytra) protecting their abdomen
- A shield-like pronotum between the head and elytra
- Legs adapted for fast movement
Tiger beetles come in various colors, making them unique and visually stunning insects. For example, some species show metallic blue or green hues, while others exhibit iridescent purple or coppery tones.
Not only do these beetles possess impressive physical characteristics, but they also demonstrate fascinating behavior. As predators, they hunt and consume small insects and spiders. Tiger beetles are known to have a “run and stop” movement, chasing their prey at high speeds, and then halting abruptly to consume it or search for other prey.
Living mostly on the ground, tiger beetles inhabit diverse environments, from sandy beaches to deserts. This source provides more information on their habitat preferences and behavior.
In summary, tiger beetles are remarkable creatures with interesting colors, physical features, and hunting behaviors. Their unique features make them a fascinating subject for further study and observation.
Distribution and Habitats
Tiger beetles are fascinating creatures with a wide distribution across the globe. You can find them in various habitats, from sandy beaches to clay banks. Let’s explore some of the habitats where these beetles thrive.
Tiger beetles often prefer sandy surfaces like sand dunes and sandy beaches. These environments are ideal for creating burrows where they can rest and keep safe from predators. The texture of the sand allows them to easily dig vertical burrows, making it a perfect habitat for them.
Soil plays a significant role in providing a habitat for tiger beetles, too. Clay banks are known to harbor the Salt Creek tiger beetle, a species found in the United States. The burrows in clay banks differ from those in sandy environments, but still serve as vital shelters for the beetles.
Various species of tiger beetles can also be found in different parts of the world, such as:
- Puritan tiger beetle: Northeastern United States
- Salt Creek tiger beetle: Nebraska, United States
- Australian species: Australia
- Canadian species: Canada
- Inner Mongolia: China
Unfortunately, habitat destruction is a growing concern for many tiger beetle populations, especially the Northeastern beach tiger beetle and the Salt Creek tiger beetle. As their habitats diminish or are altered, these beetles face challenges in maintaining their populations and survival.
By understanding the distribution and habitats of these compelling insects, you can better appreciate their unique characteristics and the importance of preserving their habitats.
Life Cycle and Development
Tiger beetles go through several stages during their life cycle. They transform from egg to larva, then to pupa, and finally to adult.
Eggs: Female tiger beetles lay their eggs in small holes in the ground. This provides a safe and hidden environment for the eggs to develop.
Larvae: Once the eggs hatch, the larvae emerge with a unique hook-shaped feature on their abdomen. They use this hook to secure themselves in their burrows, helping them to catch and subdue their prey. The larval stage can last up to four years, during which they grow and molt several times.
Pupa: After the larval stage, they enter the pupal phase. This is when they undergo metamorphosis and transform into an adult tiger beetle.
Adult: As adults, these beetles are active predators, with their long, thin legs allowing them to run and stop in search of prey. Adult tiger beetles mainly hunt small insects and spiders. Males are in constant search for females, while females try to avoid or get rid of males.
Here are some key features of tiger beetles:
- Fast and agile predators
- Distinctive coloring and markings
- Long, thin legs for speedy movement
- Large eyes for locating prey
During mating, male tiger beetles locate and attempt to mate with females. Female tiger beetles sometimes try to escape, leading to a chase or struggle.
In conclusion, tiger beetles have a fascinating life cycle and have evolved to be efficient predators in their natural environments.
Diet and Predation
Tiger beetles are known for their voracious appetite. They mainly feed on tiny insects and spiders that they find while running and stopping on the ground. As a predator, their hunting strategy often involves highly-efficient ambush tactics.
- Prey: Insects, spiders, and other small arthropods.
- Predators: Birds, ants, wasps, robber flies, and lizards.
Tiger beetle larvae also play an interesting role in this ecosystem. They have hooks on their abdomen, which allow them to anchor themselves to the sides of their burrow while they subdue large prey. However, they also fall prey to other creatures, like hister beetles, birds, and ants.
Even though they are predators themselves, tiger beetles often face some natural threats. For example, they can be parasitized by bombyliids (bee flies) and several wasps.
Here is a quick comparison of the major diet and predation aspects of tiger beetles:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Prey | Insects, spiders, and other small arthropods |
| Predators | Birds, ants, wasps, robber flies, and lizards |
| Hunting | Ambush tactics, fast running, and powerful jaws |
| Threats | Parasitism by bee flies and wasps |
By understanding the diet and predation of tiger beetles, you can better appreciate their vital role in maintaining the balance of the ecosystems they inhabit.
Physical Capabilities and Adaptations
Tiger beetles are among the fastest running insects and have incredible physical capabilities. These beetles, despite their small size, can run at impressive speeds.
Their incredible speed is due to their long, thin legs. However, they often run so fast that their eyes can’t process the changing images quickly enough. This makes them momentarily blind, allowing some prey to escape.
Tiger beetles also have adaptations to help them catch prey. For example, their large, sickle-like mandibles are perfect for capturing tiny insects and spiders. Additionally, their large eyes give them a wide field of vision, helping them spot and pursue their prey.
Here are some key features of tiger beetles:
- Speed: Considered the fastest running insects
- Size: Small, typically around ½ inch in length
- Adaptation: Long, thin legs for speed
- Camouflage: Distinctive patterns to blend in with their environment
- Body Temperature: Sensitive to heat, seeking shade to cool down
When it comes to vision, tiger beetles have some unique adaptations. Their eyes are so large that they make the head wider than the thorax, giving them a better view of their surroundings. These exceptional characteristics make tiger beetles formidable predators.
One interesting aspect of tiger beetle larvae is that they have hooks on their abdomen to anchor themselves inside their burrows. These hooks help them subdue larger prey without being dragged out of their burrow.
In summary, tiger beetles possess numerous adaptations that enable them to effectively hunt and catch prey. Their speed, size, and unique physical features make them a truly fascinating group of insects.
Behavior and Survival Strategies
Tiger beetles are known for their incredible speed and remarkable predatory habits. They use their long, thin legs to move across the ground rapidly, chasing their prey. Sometimes, they run so fast that their eyes can’t process the changing images quickly enough.
To ensure their survival, these beetles employ a range of strategies. For instance, they have adapted to finding shade promptly when the temperatures soar, thereby preventing overheating. Additionally, their distinct searching technique involves running and stopping repeatedly to locate tiny insects and spiders to feed on.
While on the constant lookout for females, male tiger beetles often encounter resistance from their counterparts who try to evade or fend them off. Not only do they have to address the challenges posed by their mating pursuits, but these beetles also have to manage threats from other predators.
Tiger beetle larvae have a unique adaptation of hooks located on their abdomen that helps them anchor to the side of their burrow while subduing large prey. However, they are not immune to threats, as they often end up being prey themselves for hister beetles, birds, ants, bee flies, and wasps.
Interaction with Humans
Tiger beetles, including the Australian tiger beetle (Cicindela hudsoni), are fascinating creatures known for their speed and agility. However, they might not be the best choice for a pet.
Taking care of a tiger beetle requires a lot of attention. They need an appropriate living environment, which mimics their natural habitat. This includes providing a terrarium with proper substrate, moisture, and hiding spots.
Tiger beetles are predators, feasting on small insects and spiders. You’ll need to provide a steady supply of live prey for your beetle to thrive.
Keep in mind that some species of tiger beetles, like the Australian tiger beetle, can produce cyanide as a defense mechanism. While this is typically not harmful to humans, handling them may cause skin irritation.
If you’re looking to identify a tiger beetle, some common characteristics are:
- Bright, metallic colors
- Large, bulging eyes
- Powerful mandibles
Here’s a brief comparison of the Australian tiger beetle and Cicindela hudsoni:
| Feature | Australian Tiger Beetle | Cicindela Hudsoni |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 10-30 mm | 11-16 mm |
| Color | Metallic green or blue | Green with markings |
| Habitat | Beaches, forest edges | Sandy areas |
| Defense Mechanism | Cyanide production | None |
Remember, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with local regulations if you’re considering keeping a tiger beetle as a pet. Some countries may have restrictions on collecting or keeping such insects.
In conclusion, tiger beetles are fascinating creatures that can be admired in their natural habitat. However, due to their specific care requirements and potential for harm, they might not be suitable for everyone as pets.
Ecological Impact and Conservation
Tiger beetles, including the Habroscelimorpha species, are known for their impressive speed and diverse habitats. However, their populations face challenges due to habitat destruction and other human activities. In this section, you’ll learn about the ecological impact of these beetles and some conservation efforts.
Tiger beetles are beneficial to ecosystems because they can feed on small insects, helping to maintain balance in the environment. They’re also an important food source for birds and other predators. Unfortunately, their habitats are often threatened by development, agriculture, and pollution.
For example, habitat destruction can lead to a loss of plant diversity, which is critical for tiger beetles’ reproduction. These beetles rely on specific plant communities for their survival and reproduction. When these plants disappear, so do the beetles. Additionally, a decrease in habitats means a decrease in the overall diversity of tiger beetles.
Conservation efforts are important to preserving the ecological balance and supporting the survival of these fascinating creatures. Some efforts include:
- Creating protected areas to preserve key habitats
- Restoring degraded habitats by planting native plants
- Monitoring populations to track changes in species diversity
By participating in conservation efforts, you can help protect tiger beetles and their valuable ecological contributions. Remember, every small action counts towards making a significant impact.
Reader Emails
Over the years, our website, whatsthatbug.com has received hundreds of letters and some interesting images asking us about these insects. Scroll down to have a look at some of them.
Letter 1 – Tiger Beetle from Colombia
Subject: butterflies/moths
Location: Tangaras Reserve, Colombia SA
March 19, 2016 4:12 am
Good Morning,
I’ve just returned from Colombia, South America and I’ve managed to identify everything except these remaining photos. I hope you can assist. They’re tricky, that’s for sure!
Signature: Cokey
Hi again Cokey,
Your Tiger Beetle looks very similar to this FlickR image from Costa Rica that is identified as Pseudoxycheila tarsalis. According to Carabidae of the World, it is found in “Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama.”
Letter 2 – Tiger Beetle found Squished in Ohio
Subject: What is that bug?
Location: Southern Ohio
April 17, 2015 5:52 pm
My daughter found a squished bug and wants to know what it’s called.
Thank you for your time
Signature: Leah’s Mom
Dear Leah’s Mom,
Leah found a Tiger Beetle, and in our opinion, living Tiger Beetles are much more beautiful than squished ones. Many species of Tiger Beetles have beautiful metallic elytra. Tiger Beetles are fast running predators that can also take to the air to avoid predators.
Letter 3 – Tiger Beetle from Brazil
Predator beetle
February 7, 2010
Hello, I supose you guys arent very familiar with south american bugs but I gotta show this finding!
It was found at night in a rainforest area (southeast Brazil), reminds me a cicindelid but never seen one with such shapes and proportions
Techuser
Brazil
Dear Techuser,
Your are correct in that this is an unusual Cicindelid or Tiger Beetle. Some members of the subfamily Cicindelinae are ant mimics, and your specimen would seem to be one of those. We hope we are able to provide a species identification for you, but time does not permit that research at the moment. Perhaps one of our readers will be able to supply a species identification.
We love the close-up photo of the face.
Letter 4 – Tiger Beetle from Costa Rica: Pseudoxycheila bipustulata ssp. tarsalis
ummm… what’s this bug?
Hi,
We saw these in a few places in Costa Rica including at 1500 meters in the Talamancas and closer to sea level as well. Someone told us this is a beetle that looks like an ant but I don’t remember what they said it was called. It is always alone. Can you tell me what this is? Thanks,
Kerry
Hi Kerry,
While we are not certain of the exact species, we are relatively sure this is a Tiger Beetle in the subfamily Cicindelinae.
Letter 5 – Tiger Beetle from Costa Rica
Can you help me name these beetles?
January 31, 2010
Hi,
please could help me to identify these beetles, all were photographed in Santa Elena cloud forest in Costa Rica in december.
Thanks,
Miles
Costa Rica
Hi again Miles,
As the label on your digital file indicates, you are aware that this is a Tiger Beetle in the subfamily Cicindelinae, but we are unable to locate a species name for you. Perhaps one of our readers will have better luck.
Comment provided by Truman
Looks like Pseudoxycheila tarsalis
Apparently it mimics a species of velvet ant
Thank you Truman. Once you provided a name, we found a photo on Flickr.
Letter 6 – Tiger Beetle from Hong Kong
6 white dots with red stripe on the back of this insect, blue/green exoskeleton
July 12, 2010
Hello bugman,
I cannot figure out what this type of bug is called. It was found on a trail outside Hong Kong University and runs faster than my camera is able to catch. Luckily it stopped for a nice pose.
Henry
Hong Kong University, Hong Kong
Hi Henry,
This is some species of predatory Tiger Beetle in the subfamily Cicindelinae.
Letter 7 – Tiger Beetle from Hong Kong
Need identification
Location: Hong Kong
August 11, 2011 4:17 am
Picture was taken at hong kong, on one of the smaller islands surrounding the city.
Around the end of may (should be summer or late spring).
The entire island was swarming with mosquitos (might be relevent).
Signature: Thanks.
This is a Tiger Beetle, and we believe it may be the Japanese Tiger Beetle, Cicindela japonica.
Letter 8 – Tiger Beetle from Jordan
Subject: Jordanian tiger beetle
Location: Jordan
May 30, 2012 9:59 am
Hi Bug people,
I managed to catch this fast-moving tiger beetle in my viewfinder. I managed to ID it as a Lophyridia aulica.
Enjoy!
Signature: Ben from Israel
Hi Ben,
Thanks for taking the time to send us your photo of a Jordanian Tiger Beetle after identifying it. TrekNature has a very detailed photograph of Lophyridia aulica. We will be away from the office while on holiday for a short time, so we are postdating this letter to go live later in the week.
Letter 9 – Tiger Beetle from Spain
cicindella campestris
Location: Europe/Spain/Galicia/Coruña
March 27, 2012 4:41 pm
We find it running in the beach, near the roch and grass. It was very fast, with brillian colours and a weird mouth. We think it wmay be a cicindella.
Signature: cicindella
What a beautiful Tiger Beetle this is. Thank you for sending the photo.
Letter 10 – Tiger Beetle from The Netherlands
Subject: green spotted beetle
Location: ede, Netherlands
May 3, 2014 6:22 pm
My son lives in ede, Netherlands and took this picture. Can you help identify it! Flies and climbs up and down trees.
Signature: svenskalinda
Dear svenskalinda,
This is a Tiger Beetle in the subfamily Cicindelinae, but we are not certain of the species.
Reader Emails
Over the years, our website, whatsthatbug.com has received hundreds of letters and some interesting images asking us about these insects. Scroll down to have a look at some of them.
Letter 1 – Tiger Beetle from Colombia
Subject: butterflies/moths
Location: Tangaras Reserve, Colombia SA
March 19, 2016 4:12 am
Good Morning,
I’ve just returned from Colombia, South America and I’ve managed to identify everything except these remaining photos. I hope you can assist. They’re tricky, that’s for sure!
Signature: Cokey
Hi again Cokey,
Your Tiger Beetle looks very similar to this FlickR image from Costa Rica that is identified as Pseudoxycheila tarsalis. According to Carabidae of the World, it is found in “Colombia, Costa Rica, Panama.”
Letter 2 – Tiger Beetle found Squished in Ohio
Subject: What is that bug?
Location: Southern Ohio
April 17, 2015 5:52 pm
My daughter found a squished bug and wants to know what it’s called.
Thank you for your time
Signature: Leah’s Mom
Dear Leah’s Mom,
Leah found a Tiger Beetle, and in our opinion, living Tiger Beetles are much more beautiful than squished ones. Many species of Tiger Beetles have beautiful metallic elytra. Tiger Beetles are fast running predators that can also take to the air to avoid predators.
Letter 3 – Tiger Beetle from Brazil
Predator beetle
February 7, 2010
Hello, I supose you guys arent very familiar with south american bugs but I gotta show this finding!
It was found at night in a rainforest area (southeast Brazil), reminds me a cicindelid but never seen one with such shapes and proportions
Techuser
Brazil
Dear Techuser,
Your are correct in that this is an unusual Cicindelid or Tiger Beetle. Some members of the subfamily Cicindelinae are ant mimics, and your specimen would seem to be one of those. We hope we are able to provide a species identification for you, but time does not permit that research at the moment. Perhaps one of our readers will be able to supply a species identification.
We love the close-up photo of the face.
Letter 4 – Tiger Beetle from Costa Rica: Pseudoxycheila bipustulata ssp. tarsalis
ummm… what’s this bug?
Hi,
We saw these in a few places in Costa Rica including at 1500 meters in the Talamancas and closer to sea level as well. Someone told us this is a beetle that looks like an ant but I don’t remember what they said it was called. It is always alone. Can you tell me what this is? Thanks,
Kerry
Hi Kerry,
While we are not certain of the exact species, we are relatively sure this is a Tiger Beetle in the subfamily Cicindelinae.
Letter 5 – Tiger Beetle from Costa Rica
Can you help me name these beetles?
January 31, 2010
Hi,
please could help me to identify these beetles, all were photographed in Santa Elena cloud forest in Costa Rica in december.
Thanks,
Miles
Costa Rica
Hi again Miles,
As the label on your digital file indicates, you are aware that this is a Tiger Beetle in the subfamily Cicindelinae, but we are unable to locate a species name for you. Perhaps one of our readers will have better luck.
Comment provided by Truman
Looks like Pseudoxycheila tarsalis
Apparently it mimics a species of velvet ant
Thank you Truman. Once you provided a name, we found a photo on Flickr.
Letter 6 – Tiger Beetle from Hong Kong
6 white dots with red stripe on the back of this insect, blue/green exoskeleton
July 12, 2010
Hello bugman,
I cannot figure out what this type of bug is called. It was found on a trail outside Hong Kong University and runs faster than my camera is able to catch. Luckily it stopped for a nice pose.
Henry
Hong Kong University, Hong Kong
Hi Henry,
This is some species of predatory Tiger Beetle in the subfamily Cicindelinae.
Letter 7 – Tiger Beetle from Hong Kong
Need identification
Location: Hong Kong
August 11, 2011 4:17 am
Picture was taken at hong kong, on one of the smaller islands surrounding the city.
Around the end of may (should be summer or late spring).
The entire island was swarming with mosquitos (might be relevent).
Signature: Thanks.
This is a Tiger Beetle, and we believe it may be the Japanese Tiger Beetle, Cicindela japonica.
Letter 8 – Tiger Beetle from Jordan
Subject: Jordanian tiger beetle
Location: Jordan
May 30, 2012 9:59 am
Hi Bug people,
I managed to catch this fast-moving tiger beetle in my viewfinder. I managed to ID it as a Lophyridia aulica.
Enjoy!
Signature: Ben from Israel
Hi Ben,
Thanks for taking the time to send us your photo of a Jordanian Tiger Beetle after identifying it. TrekNature has a very detailed photograph of Lophyridia aulica. We will be away from the office while on holiday for a short time, so we are postdating this letter to go live later in the week.
Letter 9 – Tiger Beetle from Spain
cicindella campestris
Location: Europe/Spain/Galicia/Coruña
March 27, 2012 4:41 pm
We find it running in the beach, near the roch and grass. It was very fast, with brillian colours and a weird mouth. We think it wmay be a cicindella.
Signature: cicindella
What a beautiful Tiger Beetle this is. Thank you for sending the photo.
Letter 10 – Tiger Beetle from The Netherlands
Subject: green spotted beetle
Location: ede, Netherlands
May 3, 2014 6:22 pm
My son lives in ede, Netherlands and took this picture. Can you help identify it! Flies and climbs up and down trees.
Signature: svenskalinda
Dear svenskalinda,
This is a Tiger Beetle in the subfamily Cicindelinae, but we are not certain of the species.
Reader Emails
Over the years, our website, whatsthatbug.com has received hundreds of letters and some interesting images asking us about these insects. Scroll down to have a look at some of them.
Looks like Pseudoxycheila tarsalis
Apparently it mimics a species of velvet ant
This species is very common in the Monteverde area (where Miles photographed it), and while I was managing an arthropod exhibit there it was common for tourists to show me photos and ask me what sort of ant it was. Even many of the locals thought it was a really large ant.
they can stay there..lol
Cicindela campestris
Thanks much for the identification.
Pseudoxycheila bipustulata ssp. tarsalis
Thank you for a species identification on this nine year old posting.
Just checking here with the experts. I live in Monteverde, Costa Rica. We also have those beetles in orange. I guess that’s why they call them Tiger Beetles or Tiger Ant Beetles. Do you have any clue as to what the species is called in orange???
You may submit images by using the Ask What’s That Bug? link on our site.
I think this beetle is Ctenostoma sp.