Ground Beetle

Scientific Name: Harpalus caliginosus

Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Carabidae

Size: 20 to 25 mm

Ground Beetle

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.

Identified on: 6/12/2026