An identification guide to common Dung Beetles of South Dakota
Dung beetle facts
Dung beetles have been found on every continent in the world except Antarctica.
There are over 6,000 known species of dung beetles.
Some dung beetles are picky eaters and prefer only specific types of animal dung.
Most dung beetles exhibit parental care for their young.
Dung beetles are extremely territorial and often compete with one another for food and nesting space.
Dung beetles have a critical role in the function of many ecosystems by speeding up the dung decomposition process and cycling important nutrients into the soil.
Most dung beetle species do not have common names.
Forage testing is a management tool that both forage and livestock producers should incorporate into their operations. Knowing the quality of the feed being provided allows producers to meet livestock nutritional needs more accurately and cost-effectively.
Planning for drought can quickly be replaced with a false sense of security when precipitation does arrive in the middle of the growing and grazing seasons, but the long-term sustainability of your pastures and herd depends on timely, flexible management.
Drought-stressed corn can remain a valuable forage resource when harvested and stored appropriately. Successful utilization depends on careful management, including harvesting at the proper moisture content, achieving adequate packing density, and excluding oxygen during storage.
