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Tiger Beetles (Cicindelidae) of New Brunswick

Fast, colorful predators of sandy shores, riverbanks, and forest paths

Welcome to the World of Tiger Beetles

Tiger beetles are fast, predatory ground beetles known for their brilliant metallic colors, large eyes, and sickle-shaped mandibles. They are daytime hunters, often seen darting across sandy paths, riverbanks, or open ground in pursuit of prey like ants and flies.

In New Brunswick, 12 species occur, showcasing diverse habitats from coastal beaches and river cobble to forest trails and clay banks. They are excellent indicators of healthy, open ecosystems.

Many species are spring-fall active (adults emerge briefly in fall, overwinter, then become active again in spring), while others peak in summer. This site features detailed profiles with local photos, distribution maps from 1141 iNaturalist observations, and seasonal flight periods.