Rolling out the facts: Ranchers’ perception of dung beetles and their dirty work

Dung beetles (Coleoptera: Scarabaeinae) are highly important for the ecosystem for the benefits that they provide, including increased soil fertility and aeration, increased pasture availability and suppression of pest flies, including horn flies, Haematobia irritans. However, ranchers observe pest flies that impact weight gain and profit and they may be unaware that fly management can impact dung beetles. The objective of this research is to analyze the knowledge, familiarity, perception and practices used within ranches by cattle producers and their perception of risk to dung beetles. Surveys were conducted through contact with producers linked to extension professionals from Oklahoma State University. The questions were framed with four pillars: basic knowledge of dung beetles, recognition of dung beetles’ benefits, the threats that dung beetles are exposed to, and the possible adoption of different management techniques to ensure a greater number of dung beetles in the area. With these results we can have a better understanding of how beneficial insects are being perceived for ranchers in their operations and the barriers that we can face in terms of changing the perspective for the management and the implications that this can have. With this survey we will also be able to properly do more dung beetle-related activities for extension purposes and change the perspective of the current situation.