About Eastern Forest Dung Beetle
A small, dark brown to black tunneling dung beetle common in eastern North American forests. Males have a short median horn. It is the most frequently encountered native dung beetle in woodland habitats of the eastern United States.
Did You Know?
This is the most commonly collected native dung beetle in eastern North American forests.
How to Identify Eastern Forest Dung Beetle
Eastern Forest Dung Beetle (Onthophagus hecate) belongs to the order Coleoptera, family Scarabaeidae. Adults typically measure 5-9 mm.
Eastern Forest Dung Beetle Habitat
Eastern Forest Dung Beetle is found in woodlands habitats, particularly across Eastern North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Eastern Forest Dung Beetle Diet and Feeding
Eastern Forest Dung Beetle 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 Eastern Forest Dung Beetle Found?
Eastern Forest Dung Beetle can be found in Eastern North America, where it inhabits woodlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Eastern Forest Dung Beetle can be found
Is Eastern Forest Dung Beetle Dangerous?
Eastern Forest Dung Beetle 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.
Eastern Forest Dung Beetle Role in Nature
Eastern Forest Dung Beetle 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 Eastern Forest Dung Beetle
What does Eastern Forest Dung Beetle look like?
The Eastern Forest Dung Beetle typically measures 5-9 mm.
Where is Eastern Forest Dung Beetle found?
The Eastern Forest Dung Beetle is found in Eastern North America and typically inhabits woodlands environments.
What does Eastern Forest Dung Beetle eat?
The Eastern Forest Dung Beetle feeds on animal dung.
Is Eastern Forest Dung Beetle dangerous to humans?
The Eastern Forest Dung Beetle is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Eastern Forest Dung Beetle?
This is the most commonly collected native dung beetle in eastern North American forests.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Eastern Forest Dung Beetle (Onthophagus hecate). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/eastern-forest-dung-beetle
MLA:
"Eastern Forest Dung Beetle." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/eastern-forest-dung-beetle.