Beetle identification

Yorky · Hawthorn Tree Joined: 17 Apr 2007 Posts: 87

Can anyone identify the type of beetle I saw today from the following description:

About two inches long with a cylindrically shaped body which tapered at the tail to a point. A round flat head with pincers. It moved in an undulating fashion and when my dog sniffed it flicked up its tail in a scorpion-like movement.

I've never seen this type of beetle before and would like to know more about it. Thanks in advance.

JennyS · Posted: Wed Jun 06, 2007 9:49 am Post subject:

Theres some beetle-like thingy called (memory might be wrong) a Devils Coachman that it sounds a bit like.....

Yorky · Hawthorn Tree Joined: 17 Apr 2007 Posts: 87

Yes, I do believe it is that one.

Roger · Posted: Fri Jun 20, 2008 12:32 pm Post subject:

I believe Jenny is correct... It sounds like a Devils Coach Horse!!

And just in case... by very nice to it as it's one of our friends in the garden!!! See the description i found about them below:

A Rove Beetle or Devils Coach Horse distinguished by having short elytra or wing covers, although they do not fly. They are found in and around decaying material, feeding on fly larvae and other insects.
It is a useful predator, most active at night, especially of adult New Zealand Flatworms and Slugs. When disturbed they adopt a threatening scorpion-like posture raising their rear end and opening their jaws. The abdomen releases a foul-smelling substance. It does not sting, but can give a painful bite.