They do not damage household structures or furniture and are harmless to people and pets. There are hundreds of species of ground beetles commonly found in Iowa. Most species are shiny black with few distinctive characteristics aside from the lines or ridges down the wing covers. A few species have brightly colored sections or spots.
Ground beetles live on the ground under leaves, logs, stones and other debris.
They are beneficial because they feed on insect larvae. They feed mostly at night, and may be attracted to lights. They usually gain entrance to the house by crawling in through small cracks or openings, or through open doorways and windows. Controlling ground beetles is usually not necessary. Exclusion techniques to prevent entry include caulking gaps and cracks in the foundation and siding, or repairing windows and screens.