
Community identification
Ground Beetle
Harpalus affinis
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera; Carabidae
- Size
- 10 - 12 mm (approx. 0.4 inches)
Natural Habitat
Found in gardens, forests, fields, and under debris or rocks. They often enter homes by accident through cracks near the ground.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; they primarily feed on other small insects and weed seeds.
Behavior Patterns
Night-active hunters that are attracted to artificial light. They are fast runners and usually stay on the ground rather than flying.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans; they do not sting or carry diseases. They are beneficial for ecosystems and gardens as they control pest insect populations and consume weed seeds.