ID bug near creek

iturnrocks

Arachnoknight
Old Timer
Joined
Feb 14, 2006
Messages
199
While swimming in a creek today in Kansas, we found these just above the waterline in holes in the mud facing the sun. They plug the holes with their head/shield then when you get close, they retreat into their hole. They are about 1/2 inch long. Im curious if they are larva of something or if this is the adult. If anyone knows what these are or can narrow my search I would appreciate it. Thank you.



 

Avic_Litee

Arachnopeon
Joined
Jun 15, 2005
Messages
40
That is one of the ugliest insects I've ever seen! Looks like a tiger beetle larva!
 

beetleman

Arachnoking
Old Timer
Joined
Jan 5, 2005
Messages
2,874
ahh they rock! i love that flat head,perfectly camaflauged in the dirt/sand for waiting for prey.
 

iturnrocks

Arachnoknight
Old Timer
Joined
Feb 14, 2006
Messages
199
Thanks for the ID. I wish my camera could manual focus, I would love to get some clearer pics. These were fascinating to watch.
 
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