Tetracha (Megacephala) virginica

Description:

Tetracha virginica--a crepuscular/nocturnal tiger beetle. Looking at the front tarsi, this one appears to be a female--the males have prominent pads used in mating. (I think many ground beetles have these structures.)I found this one at night, running along the road whilst I was walking the dog. This time I was prepared with a specimen container, and did not have to grip it in my hand and get dosed with stinky beetle fluid.