The larvae construct and hide in cone-shaped pits in the ground, waiting for ants to stumble in. Once inside, the ants slide on the sloping wall and fall to the bottom, where they are quickly gobbled up. Though they differ in size, shape, and color, most are flat, dark and shiny. They hide under stones, logs, bark, and debris, and rarely fly, preferring to run on the ground surface. Most hide during the day and feed at night.
Most ground beetles prey on insects or snails.
The larvae live in the soil and feed on various small insects and snails. Buying beneficial insects Some predatory insects such as ladybird beetles and praying mantids are sold commercially to control plant pests. It probably doesn't pay to buy beneficial insects to release on your own property. Most will disperse and fly to other crop plantings some distance away. Or they may stop feeding and exist only on stored body fat.