The ground in the forest is covered with fallen leaves at this time of the year, making it really easy to spot a Six-spotted Tiger Beetle (Cicindela sexguttata). The metallic green of their bodies shines so brightly that it is almost impossible to miss them as they scurry in and out of the underbrush.
I spotted this little beauty on Monday as I searched for dragonflies in Prince William County, Virginia. After months of photographing birds, often at a great distance, my eyes are gradually readjusting to searching for small subjects at close range. In the springtime I switch to using a macro lens most of the time rather than the long telephoto zoom lens that has been my constant companion throughout the cold, dark days of winter.
I also tend to slow down my pace as I search for tiny insects, scanning for changes in colors and patterns and, most importantly, for movement. In this style of photography, I cannot afford to be in a hurry and often my patience are persistence are rewarded.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved.
Mike Powell 
Wow! What a cool and vibrant insect.
Thanks, Bridgette. I love bright colors and drive an orange car. I think the beetle and I subscribe to the same philosophy–why fit in when you can stand out. 🙂
Lovely find, Mike!
Wonderful, Mike!
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Thanks, Mitzy.
Not an easy subject. They rarely stand still. And now I know where those spots are. Thanks Mike.
Thanks, John. This beetle was moving around a lot, so I was thrilled that I was able to get a few decent shots of it.
A jewel.
What a stunning wee beastie. You’ve captured the colours and sheen of its carapace beautifully.
And we are rewarded when you are rewarded Mike! Nigel and I have just been ooh-ing and aah-ing over this! I said “and its got silver eyes!” and he’s like, “six spots and silver eyes” and we laughed at the fun alliteration 🙂 I’ll share on twitter!
What a brilliant find, Mike, such a striking colour!
Yet another good reason for slowing down and taking more time to savor the surrounding surprises.
I am with you, Gary. Some of my slowing down is deliberate, though I must confess that my body seems to be slowing a bit too as I move deeper into my Medicare years. 🙂
Wow Mike! Very “Green” Beetle!
The metallic green of these beetles really shines, especially when it is sunny outside. The color also reminds me of the metal flake paint that is sometimes use to paint cars.
Garish fun! I rarely see them, but when I do they always make me smile! Thanks.
I suspect that “garish” is in the mind of the beholder, Molly. Some might consider my orange KIA Soul to be a bit garish, though I think that its coppery orange color is refined and distinctive. 🙂