And then we realized that it was actually a beetle rolling a piece of dog poop across the deck. Sort of gross and mesmerizing all at the same time. This beetle worked hard and managed to move its load a good six feet before reaching the pool screen. What it planned on doing after that, we have no idea. I have definitely heard of dung beetles, but I didn't realize that we had them in Florida. This one appears to be Peltotrupes profundus or the Florida Deep Digger Scarab Beetle. They can dig holes up to ten feet deep and the good news is that they don't harm plants or lawns.
So, while we aren't thrilled that the dog pooped on the patio, I would never have learned about this kind of beetle if she hadn't. So, thanks Pearl, I guess, but, next time, let's take your business outside.