American burying beetle (Nicrophorus americanus) (Endangered? Who cares?

The species does have some interesting aspects to its natural history Belongs to a group of insects collectively known as “carrion” or “sexton” beetles. They feed and reproduce on dead animals.

31 of which occur in North America. Only one is endangered. Largest of carrion – frequenting insects reaching a length of 4 cm. World – wide there are 570 described species, 31 of which occur in North America. Only one is endangered.

Adult beetle is nocturnal and search widely for carrion, locate dead animals using sense of smell organs on their antenna. Can locate a dead mouse within an hour of death from as far away as 2 miles.

Working together, a male – female pair lift the mouse and carry it to an area of soft soil. From beneath the carcass, the pair begins displacing soil to the side and the mouse settles into the ground. The carcass is then buried under several inches of soil. Why? After burial, the pair strip away the fur and work the mass into a ball.

A processed mouse carcass with burying beetle larvae at work. A great deal of parental time and effort are expended in rearing of a brood.

Dove being “processed”

Former range included 150 countries in 35 states, plus other populations in other states. Now limited to 5 states only, Rhode island, Oklahoma, Nebraska, Dakota and Arkansas.

It has been recently discovered that the beetle has a unique symbiotic relationship with mites. The mites feed on fly eggs and protect the beetles from bacteria. The beetle provides mites with transportation to food sources.

“preferred habitats” Open woodland Nebraska sand hills

Coastal sand habitat on block island.

Possible reasons for decline Artificial lightening that decreases populations of nocturnally active insects. Changing sources of carrion because of habitat alteration. Isolation of preferred habitat because of land use change. Genetic effects associated with small populations.