News of the critically endangered carrion beetle Nicrophorus germanicus reveals simple management opportunities through carrion provisioning

Abstract

Nicrophorus germanicus is the largest carrion beetle in Europe and was thought extinct in Germany for decades until its recent rediscovery. We investigated its habitat and carrion preferences through field experiments across six sites in a Nature Reserve in Rhineland‐Palatinate, Germany, by exposing carcasses from multiple species and monitoring beetle abundance. The species was most abundant on medium‐sized carcasses in advanced decay and dry remains stages, particularly in open habitats, and showed a positive association with dung beetle abundance. Hunting residuals were as effective as intact fox carcasses in attracting beetles, highlighting the importance of residuals, roadkill, and a continuous supply of carrion. Our findings provide actionable guidance for conservation management, including the strategic placement of carcasses, maintaining decomposition cycles, and prioritizing open habitats with suitable conditions for dung beetles, supporting population persistence and informing reintroduction strategies. This study emphasizes the role of overlooked necromass resources in sustaining specialized and threatened carrion‐associated species.