Time for some information, here are 20 interesting facts about stag beetles:
1. Stag beetles are members of the family Lucanidae and are found throughout the world, except in Australia and Antarctica.
2. The male stag beetles have large mandibles that resemble the antlers of a stag, hence the name “stag beetle.”
3. The size of the mandibles varies among species, with some males having mandibles that are longer than their body.
4. The mandibles are used in courtship displays and for fighting other males for access to mates.
5. Female stag beetles do not have large mandibles and are usually smaller in size than males.
Source: www.nature-stock.com
6. Stag beetles are nocturnal and are attracted to light sources at night.
7. They feed on tree sap, rotting wood, and fruits, and play an important role in breaking down dead wood in forest ecosystems.
8. Some species of stag beetles are considered to be threatened or endangered, due to habitat loss and collection for use as pets or for sale in the pet trade.
9. Stag beetles have a hard exoskeleton that protects them from predators, but they are also vulnerable to parasites and diseases.
10. They have five legs, but their front legs are shorter than their hind legs, making it difficult for them to walk forwards.
11. Stag beetles are good climbers and are able to climb up tree trunks and branches using their hind legs.
12. The larvae of stag beetles are known as grubs and can take up to 3-5 years to develop into adult beetles, depending on the species.
13. During the larval stage, stag beetles feed on decaying wood and are important decomposers in the ecosystem.
14. When the larvae are ready to pupate, they burrow into the soil and form a cocoon.
15. The lifespan of an adult stag beetle is usually between 1-2 months.
Copyright Rik Delhem – Lannoo – Een boek vol insecten
16. Some species of stag beetles are attracted to pheromones, which are chemicals produced by the female to attract a mate.
17. Stag beetles are also known for their strong flying abilities and are able to fly long distances in search of mates and food.
18. In some cultures, stag beetles are considered to bring good luck and are kept as pets.
19. Stag beetles have also been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments, such as rheumatism and arthritis.
20. In Japan, there is a traditional folk tale about a giant stag beetle that saves a village from a forest fire.
For more interesting insect facts in a fantastic book, check “Een boek vol insecten” by Lannoo from our friend Rik Delhem
Featured image: source www.nature-stock.com – copyright Willi Van Boven
