There are several species of click beetle and this one, Athous haemorrhoidalis, is far far the most common. It is a species that one normally finds in hedgerows and grassy areas where the adults feed on flower pollen. The larvae, however, feed on grass roots and this passion for grass roots has brought them into direct conflict with farmers as they can be a pest on cereal crops.
The reason they are called click beetles is that the adults have a unique ability, if disturbed, to launch themselves in to the air at high speed and with a loud click. They can also do this to right themselves if they find themselves on their backs. Am effective method of self defence as it not only moves them away from immediate danger but can startle their predator and that also gives them valuable time to make their escape.
The overall narrow shape and the black and brown colouring makes them easy to identify.
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