Pterostichus madidus, var. concinnus, Black Clock Beetle

Common Name: Black Clock Beetle

Pterostichus madidus, otherwise known as the Black Clock Beetle, is a large, shiny black ground beetle, 15-20mm in length; with either all black legs or wine-red legs (variety concinnus, shown in the photo above). Living under stones, loose bark and grass tussocks, it is a very common beetle in gardens and on arable land.

Largely predatory on many ground-living invertebrates, including caterpillars and slugs, but the adult also eats some plant material and can most often be seen during the summer months. Common and widespread throughout Britain.

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.