The first IUCN Red List assessment of Mediterranean dung beetles compiles the results from an assessment of 634 dung beetle taxa, of which 150 are endemic. This publication states that almost 20% of the species assessed may be threatened with extinction, including 25% of the endemic species.

According to the report, Mediterranean natural and agricultural habitats are facing major losses of dung beetles mainly because of human modification of natural ecosystems, as well as pollu-tion, urban development and unsustainable farm management. 

Both overgrazing, which compacts the soil and changes vegetation structure, and livestock abandonment – which reduces the quantity of trophic resources - are considered some the biggest threats for Mediterranean dung beetles. Moreover, the decline of cultural practices such as transhumance throughout Europe is likely to increase the pressure on dung beetles.

The new IUCN publication ‘The Conservation Status and Distribution of Mediterranean Dung Beetles’ also shows insufficient data to assess the risk of extinction of 37% of the species, which are classified as Data Deficient.

© Image de J.M. Verdu