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Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle

Scaphinotus angusticollis

The Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle is a small bug that loves to munch on snails! It has a long, narrow neck and shiny black body, making it look quite special in the garden.

Habitat: Forests

Appearance

The Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle has a sleek, often metallic dark blue or black body, distinguished by its notably slender 'neck' (prothorax) connecting to a wider head and abdomen. Its wing covers are typically ridged or grooved, giving it a textured appearance.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderColeopteraFamilyCarabidaeGenusScaphinotus
Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle
solitary trait badgecamouflaged trait badgeambush_predator trait badgeforest trait badge
Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle

Category

Insects

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

Even though it has wing covers, this beetle cannot fly at all!

Some species can live for several years, which is long for a beetle!

They are like tiny gardeners, helping to control snail populations naturally!

This beetle got its name because its neck is much thinner than its head!

Special abilities

Ability

Shell Navigator

Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle can fit its narrow head into snail shells because of its unique body shape, allowing it to reach its prey.

Ability

Stinky Defender

Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle has glands that spray foul-smelling chemicals that help them deter curious predators.

Ability

Night Hunter

Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle can hunt in low light because of its sensitive antennae and keen senses that help them find prey.

Measurements & details

Size
15-20 mm
Lifespan
730-1095 days
Leg Count
6

Diet & Feeding

These beetles are expert hunters, feasting mainly on snails and slugs found in damp places.

Primary Foods

  • snails
  • slugs
  • small insects

Foraging Method

  • Pursuit

Ecological connections

eats

Wrinkled Amber Snail

Haplotrema concavum

Preys on this common terrestrial snail.

eaten by

American Robin

Turdus migratorius

An occasional meal for ground-foraging birds.

eats

Garden Snail

Cornu aspersum

Helps control populations of invasive garden snails.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Be careful not to touch bugs you find, as some can bite or sting.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big is Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle?

15-20 mm

How long does Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle live?

730-1095 days

What does Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle eat?

These beetles are expert hunters, feasting mainly on snails and slugs found in damp places.

Where is Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle usually found?

Forests

How does Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle hunt?

Pursuit

How many legs does Narrow-collared Snail-eating Beetle have?

6

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Where to spot

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