Stag Beetle
About the Stag Beetle
Males have enlarged mandibles resembling stag antlers, used for fighting rivals and attracting mates. Despite their fearsome appearance, they are harmless to humans. They spend 3-7 years as larvae underground feeding on rotting wood, then live only a few weeks as adults. Populations are declining due to loss of dead wood habitat. They are legally protected in several European countries. In Japan, stag beetle fighting is a traditional hobby, and rare specimens sell for thousands of dollars.
Related Species
Hercules Beetle
The longest beetle in the world. Males have enormous horns used in combat with rival males...
Goliath Beetle
Among the heaviest insects on Earth - adults can weigh up to 50 grams, larvae up to 100 gr...
Firefly
Their bioluminescence is among the most efficient light sources in nature - 95% of energy ...
Ladybug (Seven-Spot)
A single ladybug eats 5,000 aphids in its lifetime. They reflex-bleed toxic alkaloid fluid...