DUNG BEETLE IDENTIFICATION SERVICES

There are several voluntary beetle identification services that can provide assistance.  

If available, it is helpful to include several specimens of the same species as this will increase the likelihood of including a male, which is often easier to identify.  

The first step is to prepare your beetle.  

• rinse all traces of dung from the beetle

•  place the beetle in a container and freeze overnight

• remove the beetle from the freezer and place on a paper towel or newspaper to dry in a well-ventilated area for one week

• loosely wrap the dried beetle(s) in paper towelling and place in a matchbox or cardboard packaging that will not crush during postage. It is important to avoid plastic packaging as beetles may sweat and decompose making identification extremely difficult. It will also ensure that unpleasant odours are kept to a minimum.

You will also need to include:  

• property location and description (GPS if available)

• details on how the beetle was acquired and the date (eg pitfall trap using horse dung)

• stamped self-addressed envelope for return of beetle identification (or e-mail address)

Post your beetle to your nearest location*:

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