Creating Insect Specimens and Display Techniques for Stag Beetles and Rhinoceros Beetles | Preserving Your Breeding Memories

After a cherished stag beetle or rhinoceros beetle reaches the end of its lifespan, you can preserve your breeding memories by creating a specimen. Beautiful specimens have high aesthetic value and can deepen your understanding of insects. Here we explain specimen-making methods that even beginners can tackle, incorporating the latest tools and techniques as of 2026.

Tools Needed for Specimen Creation

Gather the following tools for specimen making. Insect pins in size 3 (suitable for medium-sized stag beetles and rhinoceros beetles) are highly versatile and recommended. For larger species, use sizes 4–5. A spreading board (setting board) can be substituted with expanded polystyrene or cork board. Softer materials make it easier to insert insect pins. Fine-tipped forceps are best for detailed work. Wood glue or insect-specific adhesive is useful for repairing detached legs or horns. While a German box—a specialized airtight specimen case—is ideal, collection cases from dollar stores can also work. Insecticide (naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene) is essential to protect specimens from pest insects. Additionally, prepare entomological pins, paper tape, and labels for notes.

Specimen Creation Procedure

Begin the specimen-making process as soon as possible after the insect dies. Joints become fixed over time, making positioning difficult. If the specimen is already stiffened, place it in a sealed container with moistened tissue for 1–2 days to soften it (soaking in warm water is an alternative, but carries the risk of color fading). First, gently clean the insect's body with a soft brush and water. Next, insert an insect pin vertically through the thorax on the right side (near the base of the right wing). This is the international standard for insect specimens. Fix the pinned specimen to the spreading board and position the legs symmetrically using entomological pins. The mandibles look best when left open. Adjust antennae to a natural angle. Leave the specimen in a well-ventilated, shaded location to dry for 2–4 weeks. Once fully dry, remove the pins to complete the specimen.

Creating Labels and Keeping Records

Adding labels to specimens is important. Even if it's not an academic specimen, record-keeping increases its value. Labels should include the species name (common and scientific name), locality (collection site or purchase origin), date (collection date or death date), and your name. For breeding specimens, record bloodline name, parent size, and substrate bottle information—this adds value as a breeding record. When specimens like those from Hercules Beetle Pedigree Management and Producing Large Specimens have lineage records, a completed specimen gains deeper meaning. Print labels on durable paper in small text and attach them beneath the specimen with an insect pin. If handwriting, use waterproof ink. Maintaining digital records as well creates a backup in case labels deteriorate.