Dung Beetle (likely a species of Scarabaeidae)
Scientific Name: Scarabaeidae (specific genus/species cannot be determined from the image alone)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Scarabaeidae (or more specifically, Scarabaeinae or Aphodiinae within this family)
Size: Common dung beetle species range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in length, typically 5 mm to 30 mm.
Natural Habitat
Dung beetles are found in various terrestrial habitats worldwide, including grasslands, forests, deserts, and agricultural areas, wherever there is a supply of animal dung.
Diet & Feeding
Dung beetles feed on dung (feces) of herbivores and omnivores. They consume the liquid content and microorganisms found within the dung.
Behavior Patterns
Dung beetles are known for their distinctive behavior of rolling dung into spherical balls, which they then bury either for food or as a brooding chamber for their offspring. They are primarily active during warmer months and can be found foraging during the day or night, depending on the species. Many species exhibit strong parental care, with females laying eggs within the dung ball.
Risks & Benefits
Dung beetles are incredibly beneficial insects. They play a crucial role in ecosystems by recycling nutrients, aerating soil, controlling pest flies, and dispersing seeds. They have no known risks to humans beyond being a harmless nuisance if they enter homes, as they do not bite or sting and are not vectors for human diseases.
Identified on: 7/2/2025