Stag Beetle Grub
Lucanus cervus (larva)
The grub lives hidden in decaying wood and underground root systems, especially in old broadleaf woodland and rotting stumps. It feeds on soft, fungus-rotted wood rather than fresh timber, slowly breaking down dead trees as part of the forest ecosystem. When disturbed, it curls or wriggles and relies on its tough body and sheltering tunnel for protection. This larval stage can last several years, far longer than the short-lived adult stage.
- Type
- Burrow
- Conservation status
- NE
Growth chain
- Stag Beetle Grub
- Stag Beetle Pupa
- Stag Beetle