On A Heap Of Dung
(1 of 3) (801 views)

Egyptian Dung Beetle (Scarabaeus sacer)
San Diego Zoo Balboa Park, San Diego, California
(Photo posted Wednesday 23 March 2011)
(Photo taken 12:01:43 Wednesday 13 October 2010)
© 2011 Bryan Costales
#BCX_9982

A group of several Egyptian Dung Beetles clambered over a heap of dung. The saw-like surface of their front legs aided them in rolling bits of dung into a ball. The balls were later rolled into an underground chamber so that it could feed its offspring; behavior which inspired Ancient Egyptians to compare it Khepri the Sun God.

Beneficial Insect
(2 of 3) (682 views)

Egyptian Dung Beetle (Scarabaeus sacer)
San Diego Zoo Balboa Park, San Diego, California
(Photo posted Wednesday 23 March 2011)
(Photo taken 12:01:51 Wednesday 13 October 2010)
© 2011 Bryan Costales
#BCX_9983

Because dung beetles bury and consume dung, they help recycle nutrients . They also protect livestock, such as cattle, by removing dung which, if left in place, could provide habitat for harmful pests such as flies.

Iridescent Body
(3 of 3) (650 views)

Egyptian Dung Beetle (Scarabaeus sacer)
San Diego Zoo Balboa Park, San Diego, California
(Photo posted Wednesday 23 March 2011)
(Photo taken 12:02:31 Wednesday 13 October 2010)
© 2011 Bryan Costales
#BCX_9985

When the Egyptian Dung Beetle catches the light just right it can iridesce into bright fire-like colors.