Scarabaeidae: Scarab Beetles

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Aphodius fimetarius

In rolling hills just W. of Cuyamacas, along Boulder  Creek Road near McCoy Ranch Road.

This individual (and many others) were found in cow dung. It is an introduced species originating in Europe.

Aphodiine (undetermined)

Cuyamaca Woods, North Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

This beetle was found on the surface of snow in February of 2013.

Onitis alexis

In rolling hills just W. of Cuyamacas, along Boulder Creek Road near McCoy Ranch Road.

An introduced dung beetle species, originally from southern Europe and Africa.

Onthophagus taurus
Male

In rolling hills just W. of Cuyamacas, along Boulder  Creek Road near McCoy Ranch Road.

Another introduced species from the Old World. It was intentionally released in California to manage bovine dung.

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​Serica fimbriata

Cuyamaca Woods, North Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

This beetle came to a black light at 4200 feet in late June. This species seems to be a bit more abundant in the foothills than here in the mountains, at least in my experience.

Polyphylla decemlineata
Male

Cuyamaca Woods, North Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

Polyphylla decemlineata
Male

Cuyamaca Woods, North Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

Polyphylla decemlineata
Female

Cuyamaca Woods, North Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

Polyphylla decemlineata
Male/Female Pair

Cuyamaca Woods, North Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

Amblonoxia sp.

Cuyamaca Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

Cyclocephala melanocephala

Cuyamaca Woods, North Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

Cyclocephala sp.

Cuyamaca Woods, North Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

Cyclocephala sp.

Cuyamaca Woods, North Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

This individual came to a black light in late June.

Tomarus gibbosus

Cuyamaca Woods, North Peak, Cuyamaca Mountains

Cremastocheilus sp.

Lake Cuyamaca, Cuyamaca Mountains

This beetle flew to a muddy spot on the lake shore in early afternoon in late May.