Poo-poo Platter

A dung beetle walks into a bar. “Pardon me,” he says to the bartender. “Is this stool taken?”

Dung beetles find food differently than many other insects: instead of searching plants or prey, they follow large animals and feed on the fresh droppings. In parts of Laos and Thailand, people collect dung beetles as a seasonal snack. Harvesting typically involves locating a fresh dung pile, probing it gently with a stick, and removing the beetles that are feeding there.

Beyond being edible in some cultures, dung beetles perform valuable ecological services. They roll portions of dung into balls and bury them to feed their larvae, a behavior that helps break down animal waste and recycle nutrients into the soil. This natural recycling improves soil structure and fertility, benefiting local agriculture and promoting healthier crops.

How to Eat a Dung Beetle

When prepared as food, dung beetles are typically cleaned and cooked to ensure safety and palatability. A common preparation method involves soaking the beetles in water overnight to reduce debris and make them easier to handle. The next day they are rinsed again, have wings and legs trimmed if needed, and are stir-fried in a hot wok with oil, fresh basil, chiles, and lemongrass until crisp. This yields a crunchy, seasoned snack that is enjoyed in regions where insect consumption is part of local cuisine.

Water and Hydration

Dung beetles obtain the moisture they need from the dung they consume, so they rarely drink free water. Humans, however, must drink regularly to stay properly hydrated. Although some water comes from foods, the majority should come from beverages consumed throughout the day. Water supports vital functions such as transporting oxygen to cells, regulating temperature, and aiding the immune system. Staying hydrated is especially important during hot weather or physical activity—bring a water bottle to sports practice and sip frequently.

Understanding the habits of animals like dung beetles highlights both the diversity of survival strategies in nature and the practical benefits they offer to ecosystems. Whether appreciated for their ecological role or their place in regional diets, dung beetles are an interesting example of how species interact with their environment.