Pinacate beetle

Pinacate beetles, often referred to as stink beetles, are a type of darkling beetle belonging to the genus Eleodes. They are primarily found in the Sonoran Desert and adjacent regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico. The most prevalent species in this group is Eleodes obscurus.

The name "pinacate" is derived from Mexican Spanish, which in turn originates from the Nahuatl word "pinacatl" meaning "black beetle." True to their name, these beetles are recognized for their distinctive black coloration.

One of the most fascinating aspects of pinacate beetles is their unique defensive behavior. When threatened, they assume a headstand posture and release a foul-smelling spray. This behavior has earned them the nicknames "clown beetles" and "stink beetles" although these names are also applied to other, unrelated insects.

There are several closely related species of Eleodes in western Mexico and the western United States, making them sometimes difficult to distinguish. However, the woolly darkling beetle stands out due to its distinct features, setting it apart from the rest.