NOT a firefly - this is a Soldier beetle (family Cantharidae) photo

Bev Wigney | all galleries >> Galleries >> Fireflies > NOT a firefly - this is a Soldier beetle (family Cantharidae)


12-June-2005

NOT a firefly - this is a Soldier beetle (family Cantharidae)

Baird Woods

See Eric Eaton's comment below "It is a soldier beetle (aka leatherwinged beetle) in the family Cantharidae. Many species mimic fireflies because fireflies are toxic."

Nikon Coolpix 4500

other sizes: small medium large original auto

previous | next

All images copyrighted. For permission to use an image, please email Bev

comment |

Bev Wigney		13-Jan-2007 00:31
Hi Eric. Thanks! I always wondered about this one as it looked a little strange. I remember it looking unusually powerful compared to most other fireflies I'd seen. Maybe I'll leave it in this gallery with a note about it being a mimic. Thanks again.

Eric Eaton		12-Jan-2007 23:47
Hi, Bev. This is not a firefly! It is a soldier beetle (aka leatherwinged beetle) in the family Cantharidae. Many species mimic fireflies because fireflies are toxic.

Type your message and click Add Comment

It is best to login or register first but you may post as a guest. Enter an optional name and contact email address. Name
Name Email
help	private comment