I saw the first Six-spotted Tiger Beetle (Cicindela sexguttata) of the season on the 19th of March. I’ve seen several others since.
These beetles are often encountered in spring on the path or on the rocks alongside the path between Catch the Wind and Explore the Wild.
Tiger beetles are small (about 1/2″) but fierce predators. However, there’s always something bigger or “badder” out there.
If you’re thinking that perhaps this beetle was stepped upon by a passerby, put that thought to rest. These beetles are too swift of foot and wing to be stepped on by us humans.
It’s difficult to say just what happened to the beetle in the above image, but it appears as though there was a struggle. Perhaps it was another tiger beetle?
There’s an awful lot of Tiger Beetle carnage on your blog! I think I ended up with that Tiger Beetle wing…? Cassidy brought me one from you. They’re very beautiful!
I don’t wreak the carnage, just report it.
Seriously though, I found another squashed beetle yesterday and nearly stepped on one myself today!
You have to watch where you walk out there in Explore the Wild at this time of year.
I think you did end up with a wing, and yes, they are beautiful.
Have a good one…and mind where you put down your feet!
Crouching tiger beetle vs. hidden dragonfly?