Ground Beetle
Scientific Name: Family Carabidae (e.g., Harpalus pennsylvanicus)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera; Family: Carabidae
Size: 10 mm to 25 mm (roughly 0.5 to 1 inch), though species vary widely.
Natural Habitat
Typically found outdoors under rocks, logs, leaf litter, and in gardens; they often wander indoors during seasonal changes or seeking light.
Diet & Feeding
Mainly predatory, feeding on other insects, larvae, snails, and slugs; some species also consume seeds.
Behavior Patterns
Primarily nocturnal hunters that run quickly when disturbed; many species are attracted to bright lights at night. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans and do not infest homes like cockroaches; they are highly beneficial to ecosystems and gardeners as they provide natural pest control for agricultural pests.
Identified on: 12/27/2025