Blue death-feigning beetle, Asbolus verrucosus, from the Sonoran Desert of the southwestern US. When threatened, this beetle rolls over on its back and plays dead. Predators, such as spiders, prefer live prey. The blue coloring comes from the wax secreted by the desert-dwelling beetle to create a protective shield against dehydration and overheating. It feeds on decaying vegetation and is said to live up to 10 years. This beetle is often exhibited in insect zoos and can be kept as a pet.