Stag beetle larvae spend up to six years underground, feeding on decaying broadleaved wood (roots, stumps, logs etc.). They pupate and complete their metamorphosis below the soil surface, emerging above ground as beetles some eight to nine months later. The larvae are rarely seen unless dug up by predators or accidentally by gardeners.

Colin Hawes, who is researching the behaviour of stag beetles and their larvae, would like to know how often gardeners ‘turn them up’. He is also keen to collect samples of larvae from gardeners and others for studies that he is carrying out on their rate of growth. Larvae will be kept in ideal conditions and returned to original/ suitable habitat.

Larval identification

        Fully grown larvae are large - approximately 8-10cm long and 12mm diameter

        Head - orange-brown head with a pair of dark brown to black jaws

        Legs - three pairs, which are orange-brown

        Skin - white and thin. The dark gut contents can be seen through the skin towards the hind end

        Body position - takes on a C-shape

PLEASE SEND RECORDS of your sightings to Colin Hawes at
3 Silver Leys, Bentley, Ipswich IP9 2BS or telephone 01473 310678 or
email c.hawes AT homecall.co.uk

Please give the full date of your sightings, your name and address including postcode.
Records will be passed on to the SBRC.