Black Ground Beetle
Scientific Name: Carabidae (family member)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera; Family: Carabidae
Size: Most species range from 1/8 inch to 1 inch (3 to 25 mm) in length.
Natural Habitat
Typically found on the ground in gardens, forests, and suburban areas under rocks, logs, or leaf litter.
Diet & Feeding
Predatory; they primarily eat insects, snails, slugs, and worms. Some species also consume seeds.
Behavior Patterns
Mainly nocturnal hunters that move quickly. They are active from spring through autumn and undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).
Risks & Benefits
Highly beneficial to the ecosystem as natural pest controllers in gardens. They are harmless to humans, though some larger species can give a small pinch if handled.
Identified on: 5/19/2026