Tiny Game Hunting...

I knew the gym would be crowded with this being a holiday and all. And since I'm in absolutely no mood to celebrate the Fourth of July, I grabbed my 90mm macro and out into our backyard I went. I will be 'Tiny Game Hunting' over the next several days so...if you don't particularly like bugs, you've been warned. 
This little beauty is a Rainbow Scarab, Phanaeus vindex. It's a North American species of true dung beetle, found in eastern and central U.S. and  northern Mexico. The Rainbow Scarab is a native species and not considered invasive. They can swim by capturing an air bubble to stay afloat, at least for a while. They don't bite and aren't dangerous to humans or pets. They are considered beneficial because they help break down manure piles. Their life span is less than a year. 
I followed this Rainbow Scarab for quite a while. She kept flipping over onto her back, waving her legs in the air. And, though I try mightily not to play goddess, I did turn her upright several times. Finally she got her bearings and went on her way. Happy Fourth to all of you celebrating!