Reddish-brown Stag Beetle vs African Dung Beetle

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Reddish-brown Stag Beetle African Dung Beetle
Scientific Name Lucanus capreolus Scarabaeus rugosus
Order Coleoptera Coleoptera
Family Lucanidae Scarabaeidae
Size 22-35 mm 15-22 mm
Habitat Woodlands Heathland
Diet Sap Feeders Dung Feeders
Regions Eastern North America Southern Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Reddish-brown Stag Beetle

A widespread North American stag beetle with a warm reddish-brown color. Commonly attracted to lights at night.

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Did You Know?

Their species name 'capreolus' means small goat, referencing their mandibles resembling goat horns.

African Dung Beetle

A medium-sized, roughly textured black roller beetle found in southern African sandy habitats. It has prominent teeth on the clypeus and strong forelegs. Active during daylight hours, rolling dung on sand.

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Did You Know?

On hot sand, this beetle will perform a stilting behavior, standing on tiptoe to reduce contact with the burning surface.