Six-spotted Tiger Beetle

Woodland paths, open forest floors, fields, and sunny clearings with loose soil or sand.

Carnivorous; feeds actively on small invertebrates including spiders, caterpillars, ants, flies, and other small insects using sharp mandibles.

Diurnal and highly active hunter known for rapid running and short flights when disturbed; larvae live in vertical burrows in the soil and ambush passing prey.

Beneficial predator that helps control populations of small pests and invertebrates; poses no risk to humans or pets, although large adults can inflict a mild pinch if handled forcefully.