Punctured Tiger Beetle

Open, sunny areas with bare soil, sand, paths, sidewalks, fields, and gravelly ground

Carnivorous; feeds on ants, flies, spiders, small beetles, and other small terrestrial invertebrates

Extremely fast runners and agile fliers that actively hunt prey during hot, sunny days. Larvae live in vertical burrows in the soil and ambush passing prey. When approached, adults typically take short, swift flights away.

Harmless to humans, though capable of a minor, harmless pinch if held tightly. Highly beneficial as natural predators that help control populations of pest insects like ants and flies.