Stag beetle

Lucanus placidus

AdultA special find

This local stag beetle has a chunky brown body and short, strong jaws. It can dig into the soil.

Little clues

Three things to notice.

Out in the world

Around southeastern Wisconsin

Sandy lawns and woodland edges.

When to look

At night; adults sometimes come to lights.

Look closely. Leave your tiny neighbor where you found it.

A closer look

This local stag beetle has short jaws. Pictures of huge, antler-like jaws may show a different species.

A special find can be hard to spot without being biologically rare. Encounters depend on season and habitat.

For curious grownups, too

Original summaries, with references for deeper reading. Field notes are being checked against the supplied research.

Make a bug slide

Front artwork is made for a 3-inch clear disc. Revised artwork still needs a physical check. Reverse QR files use the confirmed permanent website.