# @centerforbiodiv on Instagram

- **Type:** Image
- **Original URL:** https://www.instagram.com/p/CpQPJsCu73l
- **Gondola URL:** https://gondola.cc/posts/4502098-centerforbiodiv-instagram
- **Thumbnail:** https://img.gondola.cc/tr:w-,h-,fo-auto/postThumbnails/366f5aad71.jpg
- **Posted:** 2023-03-01T16:52:52.000+00:00
- **Account Owner:** Center for Biological Diversity (@CenterForBioDiv) — https://gondola.cc/CenterForBioDiv

## Caption

Do you know about American burying beetles? If not, gather around and we’ll tell you about one of our favorite, wild and slightly noir species.

American burying beetles are world-class recyclers. After sniffing out a freshly dead animal from up to two miles away, they join a mate in stripping the carcass of its fur or feathers. Then, they cover it in oral and anal fluids — to preserve it as a shelter and food source for the pair's litter of larvae — and bury it.

Glamorous? Maybe not. Important for the ecosystems they inhabit? Absolutely. 👍

Just over three decades ago, these fascinating insects were nearly extinct (down to one known population). Thankfully, they were protected under the Endangered Species Act in 1989 and are now bouncing back. We’re still working hard for our hard-working clients to ensure they recover — but so far, we’d call this an #ESAat50 success!

Photos of American burying beetle courtesy USFWS. Short video of beetle mural from the Center’s Endangered Species Mural project, directed by artist Roger Peet.

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## Tags

esaat50

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