Where are the best places to find stag beetles in Hampshire?

The mighty stag beetle is the UK’s largest insect, and we are fortunate that Hampshire is still a relative stronghold for this majestic species.

Late spring is an optimal time to spot one of these big, beautiful chestnut brown flying beetles. The males have impressive ‘antlers’ that are overgrown mandibles, which can account for almost half their length. Females lack these impressive headpieces but are just as striking. Males can grow to 75mm long, whilst the females are slightly smaller at around 50mm.

Stag beetles spend most of their time as a grub underground for up to seven years. Here they feed on rotting wood and roots until they are ready to emerge into the seasonal warmth.

The female stag beetle returns to the same site that she emerged from to lay her eggs. Image: Getty

As adults, stag beetles only live overground between the months of May to August. Over this time, male insects can be spotted at dusk undertaking a frenzied flight in search of a mate. The females then return to where they were themselves larvae, to lay eggs, and the cycle starts again.

Although formidable to look at, stag beetles are entirely harmless. The males use their prominent jaws during gladiatorial trials of courtship which involves turning rivals onto their backs to win the female’s attention.

The male stag beetle with his impressive 'antlers' Image: Getty

Across Britain, the stag beetle is endangered with the destruction of habitats being the biggest threat to their falling numbers. In Hampshire’s New Forest, the species remains abundant, providing ample havens for the beetle to thrive, such as fallen trees, decaying timber and logs.

By retaining dead wood or installing a log pile in your garden, you can help to provide a stag beetle sanctuary. Covering water butts and creating an escape route out of your garden pond, will also help to protect these spectacular creatures.

Log piles are the perfect habitat for the beloved stag beetle. Image: Getty

About the author

Carly Harrod is a Countryside Projects Manager with Hampshire County Council’s Countryside Service. The service looks after many of Hampshire’s major country parks and National Nature Reserves, as well as some heritage monuments, local recreational spaces, and large areas of common land. It also manages Hampshire’s 3,000 miles of public rights of way.