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Common sexton beetle

Common sexton beetle

Nicrophorus vespilloides

A species of Burying beetles, Also known as Lesser vespillo burying beetle, Boreal sexton beetle

The Black Horned or Black-eyed Gravedigger (Nicrophorus vespilloides) is a beetle of the carrion beetle family (Silphidae).

General Info About Common sexton beetle
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Attributes of Common sexton beetle
Colors
Black
Orange
Habitat
swamp; dry coniferous forest
Adult Food Sources
Carrion, decaying organic materials, invertebrate carrion, small vertebrate carcasses, rotten fruits
Larva Food Source
Decomposed flesh, carrion-associated microorganisms, fly larvae, carrion, decomposing organic matter
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Common sexton beetle is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Yes
Mouthparts Type
Chewing mouthparts
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Species Status of Common sexton beetle
It is found in Canada and the United States.
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Distribution Area of Common sexton beetle
Mid and eastern Canada and northeastern USA
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Life Cycle of Common sexton beetle
Egg The egg stage marks the inception of the common sexton beetle's life cycle. These eggs are usually laid in clusters and are characterized by their small size, oval shape, and initial lack of mobility.
Larva During the larval stage, the common sexton beetle exhibits rapid growth. This stage's larva is worm-like in appearance with a distinct head and chewing mouthparts, focusing mainly on feeding.
Pupal Transitioning into the pupal stage, the common sexton beetle becomes inactive as it forms a protective casing around itself. Inside, dramatic changes occur as the creature's body structure and organs are completely reorganized.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult common sexton beetle's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Common sexton beetle
1.2 - 1.6 cm
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Predators of Common sexton beetle Larvae
Frogs, toads, birds, rodents, ants, wasps, beetles, centipedes
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Predators of Adult Common sexton beetle
Birds, mammals, rodents, lizards, larger beetles, frogs, toads, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Common sexton beetle
Burying beetles from the species common sexton beetle purposefully mask the scent of their food to outsmart competitors.
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Scientific Classification of Common sexton beetle
Tips for Finding Common sexton beetle
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Youth Habitat of Common sexton beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Common sexton beetle
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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How Can You Attract Common sexton beetle
Carcasses or decaying meat can be used to attract common sexton beetle, as they are known for their role in the decomposition process.
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Habitat Preferences of Common sexton beetle Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of common sexton beetle are typically found in or near the carcasses of small animals, which the parents bury and use as a food source for their larvae. Larvae develop within these carcasses, burrowed slightly into the ground. To locate eggs or larvae, one would search for recently deceased animal remains, particularly in wooded areas or fields. Pupae are usually found in the soil nearby the carcass as larvae pupate underground. Adults are likely to be found in habitats rich in small vertebrate carcasses, such as forested regions, meadows, and sometimes near urban areas with green spaces. A search for adults would involve examining areas around potential food sources at night when they are most active.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Common sexton beetle
Evening or nighttime is often the best time to find common sexton beetle, as they are typically more active during these periods.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Common sexton beetle
Mild, moist conditions tend to be more favorable for finding common sexton beetle, as extreme temperatures can inhibit their activity.
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How and Where Can You Find Common sexton beetle at Different Life Stages
Larva Larvae of common sexton beetle can be found in or near carrion. To find them, locate a small carcass and carefully inspect it and the surrounding soil.
Pupal Pupae of common sexton beetle are typically buried in the soil. Look for pupae by gently digging in the soil around known feeding sites or breeding areas.
Adult Adult common sexton beetle can be located by placing bait such as raw meat or a small dead animal in a trap during the evening. Check the trap after a few hours or the following morning.
Are Common sexton beetle harmful?
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Beneficial Effects of Common sexton beetle
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Explore how insects help as pollinators, pest predators, and biocontrol agents. From seed dispersal to decomposition, they play vital roles in our ecosystem.
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Decomposers
Decomposers
Stage
Adults
Larvae
Items
Dead Animals, Plant Remains
Common sexton beetle plays a vital role in the ecosystem, predominantly in adult and larval stages, by consuming and breaking down carcasses and plant matter. This process not only recycles essential nutrients back into the soil but also helps control the spread of disease by eliminating decomposing organic matter. A lesser-known fact about common sexton beetle is that they exhibit parental care, which is quite uncommon among insects.
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