The scarab beetle, particularly the dung beetle, is a fascinating insect known for its unique navigation skills. These beetles are famous for rolling balls of dung, which they use for food or as a breeding chamber. What makes them particularly remarkable is their ability to navigate using celestial cues.
Scarab beetles, especially those in open landscapes, rely on the light of the sun, moon, and even the Milky Way to find their way. Scientists have discovered that some species can orient themselves by the band of light created by the Milky Way, making them the first known animals to use our galaxy for navigation. By climbing on top of their dung ball, scarabs perform a behavior called “dance orientation,” where they scan the sky to lock onto a specific direction.
This unique navigation strategy ensures that the beetle moves in a straight line, away from competitors at the dung pile. Such precision minimizes the risk of losing their prized dung ball to other beetles. Their ability to use celestial cues, even in the absence of prominent landmarks, demonstrates an extraordinary adaptation to their environment and highlights the intricate relationship between animals and their surroundings.