Black Ground Beetle

Natural Habitat

Fields, gardens, woodlands, and urban areas; often found under rocks, logs, or leaf litter.

Diet & Feeding

Omnivorous; feeds on a variety of items including weed seeds, caterpillars, aphids, and other small invertebrates.

Behavior Patterns

Primarily nocturnal hunters; they are strong runners and are frequently attracted to lights at night. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).

Risks & Benefits

Generally beneficial to ecosystems and gardens as they prey on common agricultural pests and consume weed seeds. They are harmless to humans, though they may release a foul-smelling odor if handled.

Identified on: 5/4/2026