Geotrupes stercorarius

The Dor beetle, scientifically known as *Geotrupes stercorarius*, is a captivating earth-boring dung beetle. Measuring up to approximately 2.5 cm (1 inch) in length, this beetle features a dark, slightly glossy body that occasionally exhibits a bluish hue. Its distinct compact, arched shape and the seven rows of punctures on each wing cover (elytron) make it easily recognizable. The beetle’s head is shovel-shaped, and its short antennae culminate in fan-like structures. Additionally, its legs are adorned with numerous spines.

As a dung beetle, the Dor beetle primarily feeds on the feces of herbivorous animals and is commonly found in areas where cattle graze. In the evenings, these beetles can often be observed circling around animals on the ground, producing a chirping sound with their hind legs.

With the arrival of spring, male and female Dor beetles collaborate to excavate a tunnel beneath a pile of dung, which can extend up to 50 cm (20 inches) in length. The female then constructs side passages, filling them with pieces of dung before laying her eggs inside. She seals these chambers with additional dung. The larvae that hatch from the eggs spend approximately a year feeding on this dung before metamorphosing into pupae. Eventually, adult beetles emerge from these pupae.