Blaps lusitanica

Churchyard Beetle - A flightless beetle found in dark damp habitats. It feeds on vegetable matter. Identified by the pointed extensions at the ends of the wing casings. When alarmed these beetles lower their head and raise up on their rear legs as if they are about to do a handstand. If provoked too much they will shoot a foul smelling fluid from their rear ends which can irritate skin. Although nocturnal, this one was photographed in daylight in the Algarve Portugal.