Stierkäfer, Igel und Kreuzotter: Die Tiere des Jahres 2024

The Stierkäfer, or Typhaeus typhoeus, has been named the Insect of the Year 2024 by the German Society for General and Applied Entomology. This powerful beetle is known for its incredible strength, being able to pull objects up to a thousand times its own weight. One of its remarkable abilities is rolling small pellets from the feces of herbivores like rabbits, deer, horses, or sheep. These pellets are then transported to underground chambers where they serve as food for the beetle’s offspring.

Not only do Stierkäfer feed their young with the feces of herbivores, but they also consume it themselves, aiding in the rapid decomposition of dung. Dung beetles, including the Stierkäfer, are among the most endangered insect groups. To protect them, it is essential to have animals grazing in pastures and avoid using deworming treatments that could harm these beneficial insects. The Stierkäfer’s role in ecosystem health and waste management makes it a deserving recipient of the title Insect of the Year 2024.

On the other hand, the Blauschwarze Holzbiene, or Xylocopa violacea, has been designated as the Wild Bee of the Year 2024 by the Wild Bee Census Working Group. This striking bee is known for its early activity, with males seeking mates as early as late January during mild weather. The Blauschwarze Holzbiene is long-lived and has a preference for flowers such as Christmas roses, wisteria, poppies, and other blooms. It gets its name from its habit of drilling small cavities in decaying wood to lay its eggs.

Originally found in warmer regions, the Blauschwarze Holzbiene has expanded its range across Germany due to climate change. As a wild bee species, it is protected and plays a crucial role in pollination. Despite its large size, this bee is gentle and hardworking, making it a welcome guest in gardens. The recognition of the Blauschwarze Holzbiene as the Wild Bee of the Year 2024 highlights the importance of conserving and appreciating these vital pollinators.

In conclusion, both the Stierkäfer and the Blauschwarze Holzbiene represent important insect species that contribute to ecosystem health and biodiversity. By recognizing and celebrating these creatures, we can raise awareness about the significance of insects in our environment and the need to protect them. Whether it’s the dung-rolling strength of the Stierkäfer or the pollination prowess of the Blauschwarze Holzbiene, these insects play essential roles in nature that deserve our attention and conservation efforts.