Bug Identifier
Six-spotted Tiger Beetle
Community identification

Six-spotted Tiger Beetle

Cicindela sexguttata

Order & Family
Coleoptera: Carabidae
Size
10 to 14 mm (0.4 to 0.5 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Open deciduous forests, forest edges, and sunlit paths or sidewalks throughout eastern North America.

Diet & Feeding

Predaceous; it feeds on a variety of small arthropods including ants, spiders, and flies by using large mandibles.

Behavior Patterns

Active during the day (diurnal), these beetles are fast runners and agile fliers that often take short flights ahead of humans. They are found from spring to early summer.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem as a natural pest controller by preying on smaller insects; however, they can deliver a small, painful bite to humans if handled roughly.