Green Tiger Beetle

Cicindela campestris

12-17mm

Late March to early September

A very fast running, sun loving predatory species. Can be very common in localised areas, especially coastal cliff habitats with bare open ground. Also inhabits heathland. 

The larvae live in vertical burrows where their large circular head forms a trap door, and any passing prey is grabbed by the powerful jaws. 

Adults are brassy green, often with a blue sheen in certain lights, and variable cream patches on the elytra. Females can be identified by the two small black indentations on the elytra, whereas males have enlarged tarsal segments on the forelegs.

Often seen from a distance as they scurry around in search of prey, but often very difficult to get close to as they will readily take flight at any disturbance. In flight the strongly metallic turquoise abdomen can be seen when the elytra are open – making the beetle appear as a blue or green flash as it buzzes past.

Huge serrated jaws are very noticeable, along with the large bulbous eyes, making this species very distinctive. 

There are many similar species of Tiger beetle throughout the world, one of the most colourful is Cicindela chinensis japonica - the Japanese Tiger beetle.

Illustration - pigment liner, watercolour pencil & acrylic. A4 

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