Metallic green tiger beetles live in and around my garden. They are Six-spotted tiger beetles, and boy do they move fast! They fly fast and once they land, they run fast - up to more than 5 miles an hour, according to the Smithsonian. That translates to 120 body-lengths per second - which if you could do would be more than 400 miles and hour!
Take a close look at this beetle.
What do you notice about its eyes? They are big!
What do you notice about its legs? They are skinny and made for running!
If you see one around your house, what do you notice about the way they fly?
Tiger beetles are carnivores. They hunt and eat caterpillars and other insects that can be pests in gardens and on farms.
This week, look for shiny insects. Take pictures or, if you don't have a camera, draw a picture and describe what you see.
What a gem! (The beetle AND the post!)
ReplyDeleteThey do look like leggy emeralds!
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