- Wildlife
- Invertebrates
- Beetles
- Coppery Click Beetle
Philip Precey
About
The Coppery Click Beetle is a large, narrow beetle that is found in grasslands; the larvae (known as 'wire worms') live underground where they feed on roots and can cause damage to potato crops. Click beetles are known for their jumping abilities: by arching their backs they create tension in a special hinge in their thorax, which they can release suddenly, causing them to flip out of the way of danger. They can leap at speeds of more than 2 metres per second, creating a clicking noise as they do so. There are 65 species of click beetle in the UK, of which this is one of the largest.
How to identify
The Coppery Click Beetle is one of the easier click beetles to identify with its metallic, coppery-purple thorax and half purple and half straw-brown body. Some individuals are entirely coppery-purple. It has long, toothed antennae.
Where to find it
Widespread but more frequent in the north, the west and in uplands.
Habitats
When to find it
- May
- June
- July
- August
How can people help
The Wildlife Trusts recognise the importance of healthy habitats to support all kinds of species, so manage many nature reserves for the benefit of all kinds of wildlife. But these precious sites are under threat from development, intensive agricultural practices and climate change. You can help by supporting your local Trust and becoming a member; you'll find out about exciting wildlife happenings, events on your doorstep and volunteering opportunities, and be helping local wildlife along the way.