Quick answer
Stag Beetles (Lucanus cervus) are insects found across Europe, Asia. The large beetle with antler-like jaws. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.005 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live Larvae 3–6 years; adults a few weeks to months. They feed on larvae eat rotting wood; adults take tree sap and fruit juices and are listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Old woodlands and parks across Europe and parts of western Asia.
Key takeaway
Stag Beetles (Lucanus cervus) are insects found across Europe, Asia. The large beetle with antler-like jaws. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.005 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live Larvae 3–6 years; adults a few weeks to months. They feed on larvae eat rotting wood; adults take tree sap and fruit juices and are listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Old woodlands and parks across Europe and parts of western Asia.
Stag Beetle overview
Stag Beetle (Lucanus cervus) is a insect listed here as Near Threatened. Typical weight about 0.005 kg; lifespan around Larvae 3–6 years; adults a few weeks to months.
Stag Beetle ecology
Diet: Larvae eat rotting wood; adults take tree sap and fruit juices. Habitat: Old woodlands, parks, and gardens with dead wood. Movement and social systems reflect those pressures across the native range.
Stag Beetles and people
Learn before you travel or keep related pets. Wild stag beetles are not toys; captive care needs species-specific husbandry.
Status and further reading
Conservation label in our guides: Near Threatened. See the full Stag Beetle profile for taxonomy, FAQs, and related topic guides on this site.
Range and habitat
Stag Beetles inhabit Old woodlands and parks across Europe and parts of western Asia. Their preferred habitat includes old woodlands, parks, and gardens with dead wood, where they find food, shelter, and breeding sites. Population density varies with prey availability, water access, and human disturbance. Protected areas and intact corridors remain essential for long-term persistence across Europe, Asia.
Physical characteristics and behaviour
Adult stag beetles typically measure about 0.07 m in length and weigh roughly 0.005 kg (0 lb). They can sprint at up to 5 km/h (3 mph) when hunting or escaping predators. Stag Beetles are known for the large beetle with antler-like jaws — social structure, daily activity, and seasonal movements all reflect pressures in their native environment.
Sources
Stag Beetle FAQs
What are key facts about stag beetles?
Stag Beetles (Lucanus cervus) are insects found across Europe, Asia. The large beetle with antler-like jaws. Adults typically weigh roughly 0.005 kg (0 lb), reach speeds of up to 5 km/h (3 mph), and live Larvae 3–6 years; adults a few weeks to months. They feed on larvae eat rotting wood; adults take tree sap and fruit juices and are listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Old woodlands and parks across Europe and parts of western Asia.
What is the scientific name of the stag beetle?
Lucanus cervus — used in research and conservation listings for stag beetles.
What do stag beetles eat?
Stag Beetles have a two-stage diet: larvae eat rotting wood, while adults take tree sap and fruit juices, with seasonal and regional variation in Old woodlands, parks, and gardens with dead wood.
Where do stag beetles live?
They are associated with Old woodlands, parks, and gardens with dead wood. Local presence depends on food, cover, and human land use.
What is the conservation status of stag beetles?
Listed in our guides as Near Threatened. Check the IUCN Red List and national assessments for the latest formal category.