A handsome ground beetle found east of the Rocky Mountains, this species may appear purple, blue, or red depending on the angle of the light. It is a nocturnal hunter, roaming the woodland floor for snails, another creature that tends to come out at night. The beetle has large jaws that seem well-suited for reaching the soft part of its meal.
Look for this beetle under rocks and logs during the day where it takes shelter. It is a sizeable beetle and hard to miss, especially if it is vibrant purple.
General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns.
Territorial Map U.S., Canada, and Mexico
Alaska
Hawaii
Prince Edward Is.
Beetle Anatomy
1
Antennae: Beetles have a pair of antennae on the head used for sensing.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and mandibles (jaws).
3
Thorax: Holds the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Elytron: One of two wing cases on a Beetle that protects its wings (plural: elytra).
5
Wings: Appendages used for flying and kept under the elytra until needed.
6
Abdomen: Houses organs related to circulation, reproduction, and excretion.
7
Legs: Beetles have three pairs of legs located at the thorax, numbering six legs in all.
Colors: purple; black; red
