About Coppery Tunneler
A small, coppery-brown tunneling dung beetle native to Africa, now established in Australia. Males have a pair of backward-curving horns. It is active during summer and autumn and is an efficient processor of cattle dung.
Did You Know?
Introduced to Australia in the 1970s, it has become one of the most abundant dung beetles in subtropical Queensland.
How to Identify Coppery Tunneler
Coppery Tunneler (Onthophagus ferox) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 6-10 mm.
Coppery Tunneler Habitat
Coppery Tunneler is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Africa, introduced to Australia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Coppery Tunneler Diet and Feeding
Coppery Tunneler feeds on animal dung. Dung-feeding insects provide vital ecosystem services by breaking down and burying waste, improving soil fertility and reducing parasite transmission.
Where Is Coppery Tunneler Found?
Coppery Tunneler can be found in Africa, introduced to Australia, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Coppery Tunneler can be found
Is Coppery Tunneler Dangerous?
Coppery Tunneler is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Coppery Tunneler Role in Nature
Coppery Tunneler plays a vital role in decomposition and nutrient recycling. By breaking down dead organic matter, it helps return nutrients to the soil, supporting plant growth and maintaining ecosystem health.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Coppery Tunneler
What does Coppery Tunneler look like?
The Coppery Tunneler typically measures 6-10 mm.
Where is Coppery Tunneler found?
The Coppery Tunneler is found in Africa, introduced to Australia and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Coppery Tunneler eat?
The Coppery Tunneler feeds on animal dung.
Is Coppery Tunneler dangerous to humans?
The Coppery Tunneler is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Coppery Tunneler?
Introduced to Australia in the 1970s, it has become one of the most abundant dung beetles in subtropical Queensland.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Coppery Tunneler (Onthophagus ferox). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/coppery-tunneler
MLA:
"Coppery Tunneler." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/coppery-tunneler.