Leistus ferrugineus

About 8 mm long, this small colourful beetle is reddish brown or pale brown all over, with legs a shade paler than the body; it becomes darker coloured with age. It has a very rounded pronotum which is sharply sinuate to the rear corners, which have a 90 degree angle.

Found in fields and gardens where it is reasonably dry, but can also be found in damper habitats such as woodland.

Throughout the summer months. Nocturnal and often found on paths during the evening.

Leistus beetles all have a bizarre 'cage' beneath their heads which is a specialist feature to help them catch their prey - Springtails

Widespread and fairly frequent in England and Wales, less common in Scotland.

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland.