Ground Beetle

Natural Habitat

Found in various terrestrial habitats including forests, fields, gardens, under rocks, logs, or leaf litter. They prefer moist environments.

Diet & Feeding

Most adult ground beetles are predatory, feeding on other insects, slugs, snails, and their larvae. Some species are herbivorous or omnivorous.

Behavior Patterns

Ground beetles are primarily nocturnal, hiding during the day and hunting at night. They are fast runners and can be found scurrying across surfaces when disturbed. They are known to emit foul-smelling or caustic defensive chemicals when threatened.

Risks & Benefits

Generally beneficial insects, as they prey on many garden pests such as slugs, snails, caterpillars, and aphids. They pose no significant risk to humans, though some larger species can deliver a gentle bite if handled roughly. Their chemical defenses are usually irritating rather than harmful.

Identified on: 9/22/2025