Burying Beetle (Nicrophorus investigator) two adults, feeding on Common Shrew (Sorex araneus) corpse, Powys, Wales

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Burying Beetle (Nicrophorus investigator) two adults, feeding on Common Shrew (Sorex araneus) corpse, Powys, Wales

Burying Beetle (Nicrophorus investigator) two adults, feeding on Common Shrew (Sorex araneus) corpse, Powys, Wales, July

FLPA images of Wildlife and nature

Media ID 9671601

© FLPA/Richard Becker

Beetle Beetles Carcase Carcases Carcass Carcasses Carrion Corpse Corpses Cymru Dead Death Powys Remains Scavenge Scavenger Scavengers Scavenges Scavenging Shrew Shrews Wales Welsh Eats Feeds Silphidae

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EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this snapshot captured by FLPA/Richard Becker, we witness an extraordinary sight unfolding in Powys, Wales. Two adult Burying Beetles (Nicrophorus investigator) are caught red-handed, or rather red-pincered, as they feast upon a Common Shrew (Sorex araneus) corpse. Talk about fine dining! These remarkable beetles belong to the Silphidae family and are renowned scavengers of the insect world. With their banded sexton appearance and insatiable appetite for carrion, these creatures play a vital role in nature's cleanup crew. As summer envelops the temperate lands of Europe, including Cymru (Welsh for Wales), it seems that even insects appreciate a good meal under the sun. The vibrant green surroundings provide an idyllic backdrop to this macabre yet fascinating scene. While death may seem grim to some, it is essential for sustaining life in our ecosystem. These resourceful beetles remind us that every organism has its purpose – even when it comes to devouring carcasses! Their diligent efforts ensure that no remains go to waste while maintaining balance within our British wildlife. So next time you stumble upon one of these incredible insects during your outdoor adventures, remember to give them a round of applause for their invaluable service as nature's very own sanitation engineers!

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