Invertebrates
Devil's Coach-horse
Ocypus olens · also called devil's coach horse beetle
Under a log pile at dusk, a devil’s coach-horse arches its long black abdomen over its back, jaws wide, daring anything to come closer.
Overview
The devil’s coach-horse, Ocypus olens, is a Not Evaluated rove beetle of gardens, woodland, and hedgerows across Europe. Its scorpion-like threat pose, strong-smelling defence, and night-time hunting of slugs make it one of the most dramatic-looking beetles of European gardens.
A beetle that bluffs like a scorpion
The curled abdomen is a bluff, since the beetle has no sting, but together with its open jaws and strong smell it is enough to deter many predators.
Status
Not Evaluated globally, though widespread and common.
Devil's Coach-horse: common questions
Why does the devil's coach-horse raise its tail?
It curls its abdomen up over its back like a scorpion and opens its jaws as a bluff to scare off predators.
Does the devil's coach-horse sting?
No, it has no sting, though it can release a strong-smelling fluid and bite with its powerful jaws if handled.
What does it eat?
It hunts slugs, worms, and insects at night, and feeds on carrion as well.
Where is the devil's coach-horse found?
It lives in gardens, woodland, and hedgerows across Europe.