Here's all you need to know about stag beetles, a rare insect priced at Rs 75 lakh

Insects often go unnoticed by humans, but what if we told you that an insect from the garbage can be as costly as a luxury car? Yes, you read it right. The stag beetle, recognised as the world¡¯s most expensive insect, can come with a price tag of up to Rs 75 lakh.

Measuring barely two to three inches, these hard-shelled beetles are expensive to keep as pets. According to the Natural History Museum, stag beetle populations are declining throughout Europe, but the Thames Valley region¡ªwhich includes London¡ªis becoming a haven for these endangered insects.

Max Barclay, Senior Curator in Charge of the Museum's beetle collection, notes, "Stag beetles are rare and threatened throughout northern Europe, and the populations in the Thames Valley are some of the largest in the world. London is a particular stronghold." Barclay emphasizes that Londoners are fortunate to host these intriguing creatures in their parks and gardens. He encourages residents to create a welcoming environment for these gentle giants and take pride in sharing their spaces with them.

Based on Google Trends, stag beetles are attracting notable attention on the internet as one of the species up for conservation in the UK.

Facts about stag beetles

Lucanus cervus is the stag beetle's scientific name. Females, including their mandibles, range in length from 30 to 50 mm, while males measure 36 to 75 mm. They live for three to seven years on average. Stag beetles rely on energy saved as larvae and don't feed as adults, preferring to consume sweet fluids like decaying fruit juice and tree sap.

The larvae consume dead wood and scrape splinters with their razor-sharp jaws. They prefer wood that has white rot because it promotes decomposition. They also break down other creatures and fungi present in the wood.

Flying ability of stag beetles

The Natural History Museum claims that female stag beetles are capable of flying, with their flight wings concealed beneath their hardened outer wings. However, they are more frequently observed on the ground, where they search for locations to lay their eggs. According to Max Barclay, the females don't usually move very far unless they have to.

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Due to their large size and awkward movements, male stag beetles are more commonly seen flying, frequently at face level. It's an amazing experience to watch this happen.

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How dangerous are stag beetles?

Despite their frightening appearance, stag beetles pose little threat to people. It is safe to remove them and move them if necessary. Although they are not naturally hostile, female stag beetles have stronger jaws than males, who can deliver a moderate pinch when provoked. "You really don't need to be afraid of these beetles," Max reassures. "They pose no threat. I've never had one bite me." These beautiful insects are safe to observe from a safe distance, and if they pose a threat, they can be gently moved.

The life cycle of stag beetles

According to the Natural History Museum, stag beetles typically weigh 2¨C6 grams and live for 3¨C7 years. Females are 30¨C50 mm long, and males are 35¨C75 mm long. There are also medical uses for stag beetles.

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Stag beetle prices vary, ranging from several hundred to several thousand dollars, with rare specimens selling for tens of thousands of dollars. There is no scientific proof to back up the belief that stag beetles bring money and prosperity, yet in some cultures, they are lucky charms that increase in value.

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