James Tweed, a Ph.D. candidate at The University of Queensland, discovered a new beetle species named Excastra albopilosa in Lamington National Park, Australia.

The beetle is characterized by its long white hairs and was initially mistaken for bird droppings.

Excastra albopilosa is not only a new species but also represents a new genus of beetles.

The beetle's unique appearance is hypothesized to be a defense mechanism, possibly mimicking a fungus-covered beetle to deter predators.

Despite searching, no additional specimens have been found, suggesting that Excastra albopilosa may be a rare species.

The discovery was documented in the Australian Journal of Taxonomy, highlighting the significance of conservation in the study and protection of insect biodiversity.