Carabus violaceus, Violet Ground Beetle

Common Name: Violet Ground Beetle

Carabus violaceus, more commonly known as the Violet Ground Beetle, measures 20-30mm in length and is largely black with bright violet reflections around the thorax and elytra (wing cases). The latter are more or less oval, with no sharp angles at the front, and have a fairly smooth, faintly ridged surface.

A flightless, fast-running nocturnal predator, feeding on slugs and many other ground-living invertebrates. Hides under logs and stones during the day, and also damp sheds and other out-buildings. The larva is also predatory, although less agile than the adult beetle.

Habitat is woods, hedgerows, gardens and waste ground; wherever there is food, shelter and moisture. Common and widespread throughout the UK.

https://www.uknature.co.uk is a website dedicated to showing the immense diversity of UK nature and wildlife. Our vast range of habitats, from lowland arable to snow covered mountains, from storm-ravaged coastlines to peaceful inland freshwater lakes and rivers, from dry, sandy heaths to deciduous and coniferous forests, all these habitats contribute to the abundance of UK nature. We have wild birds in huge numbers either residing or visiting our shores (597 recorded species as at July 2013) and we must also not forget the humble back garden with its grass lawns, flower beds filled with nectar rich flowers, shrubs and trees, all designed to attract huge numbers of insects such as bees, moths, butterflies and hoverflies; and finally the small ponds which provide safe havens for frogs, toads, newts and even slow worms and grass snakes. www.uknature.co.uk is the showcase for my personal passion, photographing uknature in all its glory. I sincerely hope you all enjoy the fruits of my labours.