To overcome the challenges in tracking insects underground, a detection method consisting of a metal detector and aluminum tag was developed for tracking a dung beetle, Copris ochus (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). First, detection rate was evaluated for varying volumes of aluminum tags varying orientations of the tags under soil. Then, the detection efficacy was evaluated in the field at varying depths of hidden tags in two types of vegetation. Finally, the effect of aluminum-tagging on the survivorship, burrowing depth, and horizontal movement of C. ochus adults were assessed. Generally, an increase in tag volume resulted in a greater detection depth with maximum depth of 17 cm. Orientation, however, did not affect detection rate except when tag was placed perpendicular to the soil surface. In the field, metal detectors could detect aluminum-tagged models with success rates ≥85% up to 10 cm and 45−60% at 20 cm under soil. Finally, no significant effect of tagging on survivorship and behaviors of C. ochus was observed.