This seems to be a female Minotaur Beetle; and if you are wondering about the name, well, the male of the species provides the answer with its 'Minotaur horns' protruding from its pronotum. Over-wintering takes place in burrows, with a pair of insects per burrow. This beetle was strolling along the sandy path you see to the right of the photo below.
Dunwich Heath is a wonderful sandy, heathland habitat. We often see unusual insects, not forgetting other wildlife such as Dartford Warblers and Red Deer. Glow worms have also been seen, but I have yet to have this particular pleasure!
What a wonderful place for a walk - great photos :) I haven't seen glow worms since we used to holiday in North Cornwall when I was little although I do believe there is a population at one of the nature reserves I visit. Have a lovely Easter.
ReplyDeleteHello caroline, neat shot of the beetle. I like the landscape shot too. Happy weekend and happy Easter to you and your family.
ReplyDeleteGreat photo, you are not going to mess with this lass, bit of a brute..
ReplyDeleteAmanda xx