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Whirligig Beetle

Whirligig Beetle ©Amy Lewis

Whirligig beetle

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Scientific name: Gyrinus substriatus
Ever wondered what that little black dot whirling in circles on the top of the water of a pond is? Those are whirligig beetles! Often seen shooting across the water surface on the hunt for its next meal.

Top facts

Category

Stats

Length: 5-7mm

Conservation status

Common.

When to see

January to December

About

You may have seen this little black beetle whirling around on the top of the water in a pond or slow-moving river. Their back legs are short and flat so act as the perfect paddle for shooting across the water surface on the hunt for small insects. They also dive underwater to catch other animals for a tasty treat.

What to look for

The Whirligig beetle is shiny black, with orange legs, and is oval in shape. Its back legs are like flattened paddles. Its circling behaviour is unmistakeable.

Where to find

Widespread.

Habitats

Did you know?

Whirligig beetles have two pairs of compound eyes: one pair looks upwards, over the water's surface, while the other looks down, underwater.