SCIENTIFIC NAME: GEOTRUPES STERCORARIUS
VERNACULAR NAME: DOR BEETLE

Fig 1
DESCRIPTION A dumpy beetle with a bluish iridescent sheen this plodding little character is usually found in scattered groups.  Each elytron has 7 grooves and the jaws are clearly visible.  When upturned the greenish-blue iridescence is quite spectacular.  Often called the Lousy Watchman due to its infestation of mites.
BEHAVIOUR Usually digging on or around dung.  Will fly on warm evenings.
DISTRIBUTION Widespread throughout.
HABITAT Around dung in open woodland, meadows and heathland.
PERIOD April to October.

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