Chinchorro (Caterpillar Hunter)

Calosoma granatense

First described in 1885, this beetle species found in the Galapagos islands is known locally as a Chinchorro. It eats larvae and caterpillar, catching them with its strong mandibles. If threatened, it can release a foul odor to deter predators.

Recorded lineage

kingdomAnimaliaphylumArthropodaclassInsectaorderColeopterafamilyCarabidaegenusCalosomaspeciesCalosoma granatense

Observed

Feb 23, 2026

Location

Santa Rosa, Ecuador