Ground beetle

Usually found under stones, leaf litter, logs, and garden debris; some enter buildings while wandering or seeking shelter.

Predatory, feeding mainly on caterpillars, insect larvae, slugs, snails, and other small invertebrates; some species also eat seeds.

Mostly nocturnal and fast-running, with well-developed legs and occasional flight. Adults commonly overwinter in soil or sheltered crevices; larvae live in soil and leaf litter.

Harmless to people and does not infest food or structures. Beneficial outdoors because it suppresses many garden and agricultural pests; it may emit an unpleasant defensive odor if handled.