Hermit Beetle
Osmoderma barnabita
An adult scarab beetle of veteran hollow trees, usually remaining close to the tree where it developed. It feeds little as an adult, sometimes taking sap or soft decaying material, and is most active in warm weather around dusk. Males release a strong musky scent often compared to old leather or ripe fruit to attract mates. Although capable of flight, it is heavily built and relies more on its tough exoskeleton and concealment in tree hollows than on speed.
- Type
- Shell
- Conservation status
- NT
Growth chain
- Hermit Beetle Larva
- ?
- Hermit Beetle