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Scientific Name Cicindela formosa formosa Common Name Beautiful tiger beetle Habitat Sandy blowouts and marginal areas of active sand dunes in areas of sparse vegetation. Seasonality These beetles have been collected from May through July and September; also expected in August. Identification This is the largest of the Alberta tiger beetles. The shape of the humeral lunule is distinctive. Adults have a bright blue metallic lustre on the ventral surface, with the pigmented areas of the elytra red to red-purple. Life History Adults are known to overwinter. Conservation This species is relatively rare in Alberta, and is on the ANHIC tracking list. Diet Info None available. Range The range of this subspecies extends through central and northeastern United States to southeastern and south central Canada. These beetles are found only in the south-east corner of Alberta.