Blackburn's Earth-boring Beetle

Description:

A beetle which walks in a very dazed fashion, falling off of my hands and stumbling frequently, Geotrupes blackburnii blackburnii, Blackburn's Earth-boring Beetle is a highly beneficial species. It is uncommonly found above ground and usually digs meters into the ground to pack feces for its larvae. As a good parent does, Geotrupes blackburnii blackburnii provides the larvae with more feces than it needs. The feces which are packed deep underground become closer to the roots, serving as a natural nutrient package for nearby plant.

Habitat:

Found near the beach of Sebago Lake State Park, in a deciduous/coniferous forest, with a sandy ground. Perhaps this beetle is more common in sandy areas where it is easier to dig into the ground?

Notes:

Lifer!