The humble dung beetle: Nature’s unsung hero

This blog was written by Cari van Eeden, a Bushwise Professional Safari Guide student. Each student takes a turn as camp manager, and writing a blog is part of the experience.

“It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement, the

greatest source of visual beauty, the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the

greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living.” – David

Attenborough.

Dung beetles, known across the world, often go unnoticed. However, during my time at Bushwise, I learned just how crucial they are to the environment.

The crucial role of dung beetles

Dung beetles are vital to maintaining a healthy ecosystem. During the summer months, they play an essential role by burying dung, which, as it decomposes, returns nutrients to the soil. This process improves soil structure and supports plant health. Additionally, they help control pests like flies, which can spread disease. By moving dung, they also assist in seed dispersal, unknowingly giving plants a helping hand.

Dung beetles: The silent workers

There are four categories of dung beetles. One group, known as telecoprids, is particularly interesting. These beetles roll balls of dung away from the dung pile, then bury them in soft soil. This not only helps the nutrient cycle but also plays a large role in the biodiversity and beauty of our surroundings. As field guides in training, we quickly recognise how valuable these creatures are, so we make it a point to drive around them while they’re busy at work. It's also important for us to share the significance of their work with guests during future safaris.

The fascinating dung ball

So, why the dung ball? Dung balls serve two primary purposes. They are either used as a food ball, providing nourishment, or as a brood ball, where females lay their eggs. Sometimes, both. 

Brood balls are fascinating. Often, one beetle clings to the ball while the other pushes it along with its hind legs. The male does most of the heavy lifting, rolling the ball far from the dung pile. Once he finds soft soil, they both dig and bury the ball, allowing the female to lay her eggs inside. This is a perfect example of teamwork in action. The ball ultimately serves as both a food source and a home for the developing larvae. It’s incredible to think that such a small creature can push 50-80 times its body weight.

Other interesting dung beetles

There’s also a group of dung beetles called endocoprids. These beetles don’t roll dung but instead dig tunnels beneath the dung piles. Then, there are the paracoprids, who skip the rolling and tunnelling altogether. Instead, they hop onto the dung and lay their eggs right there, though this method comes with the risk of being trampled by larger animals.

Lastly, the kleptocoprids are beetles that steal dung balls from other beetles, often after a fierce struggle.

What we can learn from the dung beetle

Facts aside, these remarkable insects offer valuable lessons: Firstly, there are many ways to achieve the same goal, so avoid comparison. Secondly, never underestimate the power of the "smallest" among us. And lastly, you are often stronger than you realise.

Ready to learn more about nature’s incredible creatures firsthand?  Explore our wildlife courses to begin your journey into field guiding.