insect · GBIF taxon 1087226
Dung Beetle
Scarabaeus sacerAlso known as Sacred Scarab, Sacred Scarab Beetle, Egyptian Scarab
Sacred scarabs navigate the arid landscapes of the Mediterranean basin by rolling perfect spheres of herbivore dung, using the polarization of sunlight, moonlight, and even the Milky Way to maintain a straight line. Once a suitable spot is found, they bury the ball to consume it in subterranean safety or to serve as a brooding chamber for a single egg. Their tireless recycling of waste aerates the soil, returns vital nutrients to the earth, and suppresses pest populations.
DecomposerDiurnalNavigator
- diet
- Herbivore dung, primarily from horses, sheep, and cattle
- family
- Scarabaeidae
- threats
- Habitat loss, pesticide use, and veterinary antiparasitic drugs in livestock dung
- life Span
- 1 to 3 years
NE
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
- Watch the roll: Observe how they push the dung ball backward using their hind legs while keeping their head down.
- Look for navigation: Notice how they pause on top of the ball to orient themselves using the sun.
- Avoid disruption: Do not step in their path or take their dung ball, as they expend immense energy creating it.