Dung beetles roll and burrow a dung ball either for food
storage or for making a brooding ball. In the latter case,
two beetles, one male and one female, can be seen around the
dung ball during the rolling process. Usually it is the male
which rolls the ball, with the female hitchhiking or simply
following the ball.
In some cases the male and the female roll
together. The rolling route must be a straight line, despite
all obstacles. During the rolling process, other dung beetles
may attempt to rob the ball. The attacker is usually a male.
An ensuing fight is not uncommon. After the combat, the separated
couple joins and continues their labour. When a spot with soft
soil is found, the couple will stop and bury the dung ball.
They will then mate underground.
After the mating, both or one of them will prepare the brooding
ball. When the ball is made, the female will then lay its eggs
inside the ball. Some species will not leave after this stage,
but stay and safeguard their offspring.
