Little is known about its specific life history traits and habitat. In general, beetles of the Family Scarabaeidae, Subfamily Aphodiinae eat dung and other decaying organic materials.
Most adults tunnel and form a dung ball underground for larvae.
Larvae live in soil or sand, feeding on organic materials or plant roots. Similar to the other sensitive species, fragmentation, degradation, and loss of habitat have been the primary factors in the decline of this beetle. Dune systems in the San Joaquin Valley have been destroyed or severely degraded by agricultural development, flood control, water management, and off-road vehicle use. The suitable habitat for the Ciervo aegialian scarab beetle is very limited and highly fragmented, and as a result, its populations are locally isolated and are highly vulnerable to disturbances. A field guide to the beetles of North America.