american burying beetle
National Parks/ Sanctuaries
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Common Names
american burying beetle
Regions
New Jersey, United StatesArkansas, United StatesCanada
Population
3,000
Habitat
Grasslands and forests of North America
Weight(in lbs) and Life Span
25 to 25 grams and 1 to 2 years
Regions
New Jersey, United States, Arkansas, United States, Canada, Kansas, United States, Missouri, United States, Nebraska, United States, Ohio, United States, Oklahoma, United States, Texas, United States, Rhode Island, United States, South Dakota, United States, Massachusetts, United States
The American burying beetle (Nicrophorus americanus) is an insect species found in North America that is facing extinction as its population has significantly declined. The exact number of remaining individuals is difficult to estimate, but they are known to be highly localized. Habitat loss, fragmentation, pesticide use, and reduced availability of carrion (their primary food source) are the main threats to this species.
Activity Instructions
- Draw the Animal: Use the next page to draw a picture of the animal. Use your imagination and make it colorful!
- Write an Essay: Write a short essay about the conservation efforts to save this animal. Here are some questions to guide you:
- Why is this species important in its ecosystem?
- What are the threats it faces, and how can we help?
- What do you find most interesting about this species?
