Click here to open a page illustrating the terms necessary to use the keys and diagnoses of this site. Use the illustration to learn the basic terms of Tiger Beetle Anatomy. As a result of this popularity these beetles have been collected more consistently than many other beetle groups. This makes them a good choice for ecological monitoring because we have a relatively good understanding of the species' historical ranges and abundance. The database that has been built to assess the conservation status of CT tiger beetles was based on specimens collected primarily by amateurs, starting in the mid 1800s.
Amateur collectors can be very helpful to conservation efforts.
It is strongly recommended that anyone interested in collecting tiger beetles should know and understand the basics of collecting techniques and ethics. Without such experience it will very difficult to obtain a collector's permit. However, the latter species has not been found in CT since 1950 and is presumed extinct within the state. However, it is now mandatory that a permit be in hand to collect ANY species of tiger beetle in Connecticut. I hope that in spite of the difficulties associated with obtaining a permit, you realize that you can help our efforts.