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Blue Death Feigning Beetles (Asbolus verrucosus)

Blue Death Feigning Beetles (Asbolus verrucosus) are hardy, desert-dwelling insects native to the southwestern United States, especially the Sonoran and Mojave deserts. Their signature powdery blue color comes from a waxy coating that helps prevent moisture loss in arid environments. When threatened, they perform a dramatic defense behavior—playing dead—which gives them their name.
These beetles are slow-moving, peaceful, and communal, making them ideal for display enclosures. They thrive on a dry sand substrate with rocks and hides, and their diet is impressively varied: fruits, vegetables, dead insects, and even dog or cat kibble. 

If the humidity is too high in the substrate or the air, these little guys will turn black. This is not permanent but due to the waxy blue coating 'washing' off. They will regain their blue colour once the humidity levels go back to normal.

Blue Death Feigning Beetles (Asbolus verrucosus)

Rating is 5.0 out of five stars based on 1 review
£18.00Price
Quantity
  • Size: Adults, unsexed         
    Status: WC
    Range: Southwest USA

     

  • Temperature 20-28
    Humidity below 10% (ideally as dry as possible)
    Diet

    dried mealworms, dog biscuit, small amounts of

    carrot and root veg

    Enclosure

    Terrestrial

     

    If the humidity is too high in the substrate or the

    air, these little guys will turn black. This is not

    permanent but due to the waxy blue coating

    'washing' off. They will regain their blue colour

    once the humidity levels go back to normal.

     

Reviews

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.
5.0 | 1 review
1 review
  • John WrightAug 07, 2025
    Rated 5 out of 5 stars.
    Beautiful beetles

    I have been looking to get some of these beautiful beetles for a long time. I was delighted to be able to get hold of 2 from Invertebrate Supplies. They arrived very quickly and are super healthy. Thank you!

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