Devil's Coach Horse Beetle

Natural Habitat

Damp areas, gardens, woodland, and under stones or leaf litter

Diet & Feeding

Carnivorous; feeds on invertebrates like snails, slugs, worms, and woodlice

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal hunter. When threatened, it raises its abdomen and opens its mandibles like a scorpion. It can also emit a foul-smelling substance from its tail.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits the ecosystem by controlling garden pests. While not venomous, it can deliver a painful bite if handled. No risk to structures.

Identified on: 4/18/2026