Bug Identifier
Six-spotted Tiger Beetle
Community identification

Six-spotted Tiger Beetle

Cicindela sexguttata

Order & Family
Coleoptera; Carabidae
Size
10 to 14 mm (about 0.4 to 0.55 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found in deciduous forests, open woodland paths, and edges of sunlit fields, often on logs or stones.

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous predator; feeds on small insects, spiders, and other arthropods using its large mandibles.

Behavior Patterns

Diurnal and highly active; known for fast running and short, quick bursts of flight when disturbed. Larvae are sedentary 'ambush' predators living in vertical burrows.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling pest insect populations. While not dangerous to humans, they can deliver a small, harmless pinch if handled roughly.