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Burying Beetle

The American burying beetle, the largest species in the Nicrophorus genus, is also known as the giant carrion beetle and is a critically endangered species endemic to North America, but existing now in only 10% of its historic range of Nova Scotia to Florida, Texas and South Dakota. As the name implies, it feeds on decaying flesh, or carrion, a service which makes it critically important to nutrient cycling in its environment. More below...

    20 products
    Burying Beetle Greeting Card
    Burying Beetle Women's Favourite T-Shirt
    Burying Beetle Framed & Mounted Print
    Burying Beetle Hardback Journal
    Burying Beetle Glass Chopping Board
    Burying Beetle Unisex Short Sleeve T-Shirt
    Burying Beetle Canvas Tote Bag
    Burying Beetle Placemat
    Burying Beetle Fine Art Print
    Burying Beetle Notebook
    Burying Beetle Coaster
    Burying Beetle Tablet Cases
    Burying Beetle Cushion
    Burying Beetle Eco Phone Case
    Burying Beetle Hahnemühle German Etching Print
    Burying Beetle Hahnemühle Photo Rag Print
    Burying Beetle Framed Photo Tile
    Burying Beetle Fine Art Print with Hanger
    Burying Beetle Framed Print
    Burying Beetle Mug

    Burying Beetle

    This fascinating species carries tiny mites on its back which aid in cleaning the small dead mammals and birds it locates for its food. There is a competition between beetles for each meal and the winners, usually the largest couple, will slide on their backs into a dug-out burial chamber to continue with the meal, made easier by the mites. This will then turn into their “brood ball” with their special embalming fluids, and it is where they will lay their eggs over the next 24 hours. When the grubs emerge over the next few days, they will be cared for by both parents, an unusual behaviour for this group of insects. For more about this fascinating species, visit the Center for Biological Diversity>>

    Burying beetles are powerful symbols in many cultures, including Ancient Egypt where they were worshipped for their powers of transformation and as shepherds of souls. For more, check out my beetle blog!

    Project: Commissioned for a collection of exemplar species pages during the launch phase of the Encyclopedia of Life (eol.org) whose goal is to provide information about every species on the planet.

    This insect science illustration is available on a variety of products, from fine art prints to everyday essentials, including, cards, journals, mugs, pillows, t-shirts & hoodies, cutting boards & other home goods and tech accessories. Bringing wildlife art to your home and providing unique gifts for nature lovers, while helping to protect this important species. Museum quality prints available framed or unframed in a range of sizes and styles.

    🌎 %3 from all proceeds from my Shop go to support conservation groups actively protecting habitats around the world 🌎


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