The American Burying Beetle is the largest carrion beetle in North America and is critically endangered, now persisting in only a handful of isolated populations. A pair of adults works together to bury a small carcass, on which the female lays eggs; they then guard and feed the larvae in an example of biparental care rare among insects. Its striking pattern of orange and black blotches stands out among carrion beetles.
Best time to see a American Burying Beetle
The best time to see a American Burying Beetle is July–August, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 118 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a American Burying Beetle? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent American Burying Beetle sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spot a American Burying Beetle? Identify it instantly.
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal for an instant ID, its rarity, and a live map of where it is being seen near you.
Get HuckGet an alert when a American Burying Beetle is spotted
Pick a park, state, or city and we’ll email you when one turns up there. One check a day, only when there’s something new.
Free. Unsubscribe from any email. See our Privacy Policy.
Love insects & arthropods? Get Huck field notes
Spotting tips, new species, and the best of what people are finding in the wild - straight to your inbox.