Flightless dung beetle

The flightless dung beetle is a fascinating creature found exclusively in select regions of South Africa, including Addo Elephant National Park and Buffalo Valley Game Farm. Its uniqueness stems from its classification within the genus Circellium, where it is the only species. Unlike other beetles, it lacks the ability to fly. Instead, it ingeniously uses the space beneath its hardened wing covers (elytra) to store carbon dioxide, an adaptation that aids in water conservation, crucial for its survival in arid environments.

Historically widespread across Southern Africa, the flightless dung beetle is now classified as vulnerable by the IUCN. Several factors contribute to this status: habitat loss due to agricultural expansion and human activities, a limited breeding capacity, and its inability to fly, which restricts its range. Moreover, these beetles are highly dependent on dung from specific large animals such as elephants and buffaloes, whose populations are also in decline.

While their primary diet consists of elephant and buffalo dung, these beetles exhibit some dietary flexibility and will also consume the droppings of other animals, including rabbits, baboons, antelopes, and ostriches.