
Community identification
Ground Beetle
Harpalus caliginosus
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera, Family: Carabidae
- Size
- 20 to 25 mm
Natural Habitat
Found in fields, gardens, and woodlands; they are often found under logs, rocks, or leaf litter during the day.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous, feeding on other invertebrates such as slugs and caterpillars, as well as seeds from plants like ragweed.
Behavior Patterns
Night-active (nocturnal) hunters that are often attracted to bright lights; they are fast runners and rarely fly.
Risks & Benefits
Beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as they help control pest populations; they are harmless to humans, though they may emit a pungent odor or nip if handled.