This beetle is widely distributed throughout the country. It is usually found in areas where there are carcasses (dead animals). Carcasses can range anywhere from dead rodents to birds. Occasionally it is found on decaying vegetation or living plants. Thus, forests, woodlands, , shrub land, and sandy prairies are common areas where these beetles thrive. Its occurrence at Fontenelle Natures center is not known. This photo was taken at Camp Brewster.

These beetles have sensitive antennae that contain olfactory organs. This allows the beetle to locate dead animals. The mating of the male and female can begin anytime after a food source is found and buried. Mating is not particular to the carcass and can take place anywhere around it. When the eggs are laid they are then deposited into the nearby soil at a time at least twelve hours from the discovery of the carcass. Once the eggs hatch, after about four days, the larva move towards the carcass to a feeding hole that was made by the parents. Both parents then feed the larvae regurgitated food for about six to eight days when the larvae are fully developed. Recent studies have shown that carrion beetles may produce antibiotics to protect the larva from bacteria associated with the carcasses.