Carabus sp.

Snail-eating Ground Beetle



Beetle eating snail, Carabidae: Carabus sp.

Family: Carabidae

Subfamily: Carabinae

Length: 15-28 mm

 

These active beetles are often found under logs or leaf litter, actively seeking out their snail prey. Their head is narrowed to allow it to enter the aperture of snail shells. They may be encounted in West Virginia at least from May through September.


Insects of West Virginia