The family Geotrupidae is distinguished from the other families by its 11- segmented antennae. Geotrupids also possess exposed mandibles and a highly rounded, hemispherically-shaped body. Four subfamilies occur in the world, two of which occur in North America and contain about 72 species.
Many species are secretive and difficult to find.
Geotrupids dig burrows in the soil, and some species provision these burrows with food for their young. Adults and larvae feed primarily on decaying plant matter and fungi, and to a lesser extent on dung. Most species are attracted to light, and a few are strictly nocturnal. Many species of the subfamily Geotrupinae are attracted to baits like fermenting malt or molasses. Ten species from both subfamilies in North America occur in Wisconsin.