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European Stag Beetle

Lucanus cervus

European Stag Beetle, reference photograph — Lucanus cervus · observation 377908216 · Diego González Dopico · CC BY

Facts

The male's antler-like structures are enlarged jaws used in contests with other males.
Larvae spend years developing in decaying wood; the short adult stage centers on mating and egg laying.
The NHM gives adult lengths including jaws of 35–75 mm for males and 30–50 mm for females.

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Research sources