Some species have metallic or iridescent blue, green and bronze coloration. Adults of species are identified by distinguishing characters that include presence of hairs on the face of the head as well as the pattern and texture of the wing covers. Tiger beetles are closely related to ground beetles. Eggs are laid in individual burrows by females. Burrows may be over a foot deep in hard-packed sand.
Mouthparts are for chewing with sickle-like mandibles.
Most tiger beetles are active during sunny days and are frequently seen in sandy areas such as along the shores of rivers and streams, resting on the surface and then running or flying quickly away when approached. Some are active at dusk or are nocturnal. Larvae live in burrows in the soil where the wait for passing prey like a trap with open sickle-like jaws. Both adult and larval stages of tiger beetles feed on a wide variety of insects and are generally considered to be beneficial. Some species are attracted to lights, and some give off an odor when handled.