Soldier beetle - firefly mimic

Description:

Black abdomen and elytra (mottled with white, possibly due to age), pronotum with prominent black markings, outlined in red and white. Head exposed, not covered by pronotum.

Habitat:

Forest

Notes:

Many soldier beetles are good mimics of fireflies, such as this one. The distinguishing characteristic is that the pronotum does not cover the head. It's difficult to tell sometimes which family of beetle you're looking at, which is why it's also a good idea to check for light organs on its ventral side. Found at Barbara A. Beiser Field Station.