Source: Wikimedia Commons
Lucanus Stag Beetle
AdvancedEurope's largest stag beetle. Lucanus cervus is famous as Europe's iconic beetle.
Difficulty
Advanced
Temperature
20〜28℃
Lifespan
Adult 1-3 months
Size
30-85mm
Humidity
60〜80%
Diet
Insect jelly
About
Lucanus cervus, the European stag beetle, is the largest stag beetle in Europe, distributed from the British Isles through central and southern Europe to Asia Minor. Males bear impressively large, branched mandibles resembling a stag's antlers, reaching 30–85 mm in body length with a reddish-brown to dark brown coloration. They inhabit deciduous forests, particularly those with old oak trees, where larvae spend 3–5 years feeding in decaying roots—a feature that makes captive rearing quite challenging. Cool temperature management at 18–22°C is essential. A well-ventilated enclosure with broadleaf hardwood logs is required for egg-laying. Adults live only 1–3 months. The species is legally protected in several European countries and is recognized as a flagship species for woodland conservation. Its iconic status in European natural history and the challenge of multi-year larval rearing make it a prestigious species among stag beetle enthusiasts worldwide.
Basic Info
Origin
Europe, from the British Isles through central and southern Europe to Asia Minor
Lifespan
Adult 1-3 months
Size
30-85mm
Temperature
20〜28℃
Humidity
60〜80%
Diet
Insect jelly
Care Guide
Temperature
Cool temperature essential (18-22°C)
Housing
Keep in well-ventilated case
Growth
Larval period is very long at 2-4 years
Notes
May be protected in Europe. Check regulations
LucanusEurope largestIconicCool temperature
Lucanus Stag Beetle FAQ
QHow difficult is it to keep Lucanus Stag Beetle?
A
Advanced. This is an advanced-level species. It requires specialized equipment and advanced husbandry skills with precise environmental control.
QWhat is the ideal temperature for Lucanus Stag Beetle?
A
The ideal temperature for Lucanus Stag Beetle is 20〜28℃. Recommended humidity is 60〜80%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
QWhat is the lifespan of Lucanus Stag Beetle?
A
The average lifespan of Lucanus Stag Beetle is Adult 1-3 months. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
QHow large does Lucanus Stag Beetle get?
A
Lucanus Stag Beetle typically reaches 30-85mm as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
QWhat should I feed Lucanus Stag Beetle?
A
Lucanus Stag Beetle feeds on: Insect jelly. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
QWhat is the typical price for Lucanus Stag Beetle?
A
The price of Lucanus Stag Beetle varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Breeding Records & Localities
Notable localities
日本ヨーロッパアジア北米
ミヤマクワガタ属(Lucanus)の総称。冠状の頭部突起を持つ種が多い。サイズ記録は各種ページ（ミヤマクワガタ等）を参照。
Generation codes
- WD
- Wild-caught
- WF1
- Offspring of a wild-caught female
- F1〜
- Captive generations (same locality)
- CBF1
- Cross-locality captive-bred (reset)
Sources: BE-KUWA 認定飼育レコード（むし社、2025年度版）
References & Sources
Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Primary sources
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