Black Ground Beetle
Scientific Name: Harpalus pennsylvanicus
Order & Family: Coleoptera: Carabidae
Size: 10 to 15 mm (approximately 0.4 to 0.6 inches)

Natural Habitat
Fields, gardens, and woodlands; often found under stones, logs, or debris.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; primarily feeds on weed seeds and small insects like caterpillars or aphids.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and fast-moving; they are often attracted to porch lights at night and hide during the day. They undergo complete metamorphosis.
Risks & Benefits
Benefits the ecosystem by controlling agricultural pests and weed populations; they are harmless to humans and do not bite or sting unless handled roughly.
Identified on: 5/28/2026