Marginated Tiger Beetle

On August 21, 2008, Biologist Neil Kapitulik documented a third species of tiger beetle breeding within the boundary of Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge.   The third species is the 'Margined' tiger beetle, Cicindela marginata a relatively uncommon resident of marshes, dark mudflats and the protected bay side of barrier beaches.  These tiger beetles range from Maine to the Gulf Coast of Florida, but their numbers appear to be dwindling.  The margined tiger beetle is classified as a "species of special concern" by the Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection and is known to be present only in a few protected sites in all of New England (Pearson, 2006).     

Neil spent most of the summer doing research on the federally listed North Eastern Beach Tiger Beetle but the common tiger beetle (Cicindela hirticollis) or the 'hairy neck' is found throughout the island on sand beaches.  The margined tiger beetle is found in the unique wetland habitat created around Hospital pond.

"They typically occur in sheltered, marshy sites, and the Hospital pond inlet is ideal", says Neil.

On July 3rd, Neil found over 200 active burrows of both 2^nd and 3^rd instar larvae and he returned in August to confirm the species presence as adults. "Neil was also able to find the larval site which will aid in protection and conservation of this species within the refuge's boundary", says Refuge Manager Michael Brady.