Minotaur Beetle
Minotaur Beetle Facts
Size | 0.6-0.9 in (15-24 mm) |
Speed | Unknown |
Weight | Unknown |
Lifespan | 2-3 years |
Food | Dung |
Predators | Birds, snakes |
Habitat | Europe, northern Africa |
Order | Beetles |
Suborder | Polyphaga |
Family | Earth-boring dung beetles |
Scientific name | Typhaeus typhoeus |
Characteristics | Strong grooves, males have horns |
The minotaur beetle belongs to the family of earth-boring dung beetles. This shiny, black beetle might not be the monster from Greek mythology but it gets its scientific name from the monster Typhon, a giant with a hundred dragon or snake heads.
Favorite Animals: Rabbits, Sheep, Deer
Minotaur beetles are fans of rabbit, sheep and deer droppings.
Males have Horns
It’s very easy to tell the males and females apart. The males have a kind of antlers, or horn-like growths protruding from their neck plate.
Minotaur Beetles under Protection
Earth-boring dung beetles are not endangered. But minotaur beetles have become rare in Germany, so have been placed under environmental protection.
Where are they then?
Unlike the dor beetle, the minotaur beetle is a rare sight. The entrances to their tunnel systems are, however, easy to see. These are small, round openings of around 0.4 inch (1 cm) in diameter.
- Find out more:
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- Firefly Facts
- Forest Dung Beetle Facts
- Ladybug Facts
- May Bug Facts
- Scarab Beetle Facts
- Spring Dor Beetle Facts