Ground Beetle

Scientific Name: Carabidae (family)

Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Carabidae

Size: 2mm to 35mm (0.08 to 1.4 inches), depending on the species.

Ground Beetle

Natural Habitat

Typically found on the ground under rocks, logs, leaves, and debris; common in gardens and woodlands.

Diet & Feeding

Primarily predatory, eating other insects, slugs, snails, and worms. Some species also consume seeds.

Behavior Patterns

Mostly nocturnal, hiding during the day and active at night. Many species are flightless but are very fast runners.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to gardens as they eat common pests like slugs and caterpillars. They are harmless to humans, though larger species may give a small pinch with their mandibles if handled.

Identified on: 4/29/2026