Ground Beetle

Natural Habitat

Highly diverse, found in a wide range of terrestrial environments including forests, fields, gardens, urban areas, under stones, logs, leaf litter, and in soil.

Diet & Feeding

Mostly carnivorous, preying on small invertebrates like caterpillars, maggots, slugs, snails, and other insect larvae. Some species also consume seeds or plant matter.

Behavior Patterns

Ground Beetles are typically nocturnal, active hunters that forage for prey on the ground. They are fast runners and can often be found under rocks, logs, or leaf litter during the day. Many species are attracted to lights at night. When threatened, some species can release foul-smelling chemicals from glands at the rear of their abdomen.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: Ground Beetles are highly beneficial insects in gardens and agricultural settings as they are significant predators of many common pests, helping with natural pest control. They do not sting or bite humans and are generally harmless. Risks: No significant risks to humans or property.

Identified on: 8/8/2025