Various ground beetle species wander into homes from time to time. These beetles vary greatly in sizes, shape and color. Most of them are dark, almost blackish, shiny, and somewhat flattened, although some species are brilliantly colored. Ground beetles typically live on the ground under leaves, logs, stones, and other debris. They feed mostly at night. Only a few species fly or are attracted to lights. These pests usually gain entrance to houses by crawling through small openings around windows or doorways. When they get inside, they will wander around rather aimlessly, as their preferred habitat is outdoors. Most of these beetles are predators on other insects that crawl around at night.
Where control is necessary, it should consist of eliminating outdoor hiding places or, whenever possible, manipulation of lighting that may be attracting the beetles to the structure. Use of caulk and weather stripping around door and window frames, or around any other possible access points tot he home, will also aid in preventing ground beetle problems indoors. Treatment of outdoor areas with insecticide may also be necessary. Firewood and other sources of harborage should be moved as far away from the house as practical. For homes in wooded areas, debris should be cleared from around the perimeter of the house.