Description

Body length 5 to 6.5mm. A small ground beetle with a distinctive black and tan pattern. There are two other very similar species so care should be taken to decide the species.

Habitat

Found in moss and under bark in a very wide range of habitats. Both the adults and their larvae are predaceous, mainly feeding on snails, which they attack by biting through their shells.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread in England and Wales, less so in Scotland. Common in Nottinghamshire and recorded once at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

April to August