European Stag Beetle

jelenak · Lucanus cervus

insectprotected

Europe's largest beetle, the males armed with huge antler-like jaws used to wrestle rivals on warm summer evenings around old oaks.

Identification & best seen

Up to ~8 cm; glossy black-brown, males with oversized 'antler' mandibles.

Habitat & where to see

Old oak woodland and veteran trees with rotting deadwood.

Fun fact

The larvae spend years feeding inside rotting wood before the adults emerge for a single short summer.