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How to Control Black Ground Beetles

There are more than a thousand different species of black ground beetle. Different species range in size from 1/8 inch to just over 1 inch in length. The insects feed on a wide variety of outdoor pests. Most agricultural extensions consider the insects beneficial, as they hunt and devour cutworms, caterpillars and other invasive larvae. However, black ground beetles can invade homes. They are often mistaken for cockroaches or water bugs. Keeping the insects out of the house is the best way to control them.

Things You'll Need

Yellow or sodium vapor lightbulbs
Rake
Broom

Instructions

- 1
  Replace all outdoor lightbulbs with yellow, bug-repelling bulbs. Black ground beetles, like many flying insects, are attracted to bright, white light.
- 2
  Shine indoor lighting toward the room. Ensure that lamps do not shine out the windows or doors.
- 3
  Remove dead leaves and debris from the foundation of the home. These harbor black ground beetles. Use a small rake or broom to move the debris. Beetles can and will defend themselves with pincers, noxious odors or acid-like excretions.
- 4
  Caulk around windows and screens. While black ground beetles prefer to hunt in the garden, they will seek shelter during cold or inclement weather.
- 5
  Capture any live beetles that you find in the house with a broom and dustpan. Relocate them to the garden where they will hunt down garden pests.

Insects & Science