this post was submitted on 13 Jul 2024
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UK Nature and Environment

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Stag beetle researchers have called on people across London to record any sightings to help track the insect's whereabouts and numbers.

Britain's largest beetle species has been in "steep decline" across much of Europe but the capital remains a "hotspot", according to the London Wildlife Trust.

The beetle, whose males have distinctive antler-like jaws, are most commonly found in west and south-west London's parks and woodlands.

North and east London has seen fewer recorded sightings over the years, which the trust says remains unexplained.

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[–] [email protected] 1 points 1 month ago

This is the best summary I could come up with:


Stag beetle researchers have called on people across London to record any sightings to help track the insect's whereabouts and numbers.Britain's largest beetle species has been in "steep decline" across much of Europe but the capital remains a "hotspot", according to the London Wildlife Trust.The beetle, whose males have distinctive antler-like jaws, are most commonly found in west and south-west London's parks and woodlands.

North and east London has seen fewer recorded sightings over the years, which the trust says remains unexplained.

Stag beetles are 5-8cm longMale stag beetles have large, antler-shaped jawsMales often fly in the evening, before dusk, during summerFemale stag beetles lack antlers, have smaller but more powerful jaws and are usually seen on the groundAdults emerge from soil under logs or stumps from mid-May to late JulyStag beetles are found near dead wood, spending most of their lives as larvae in tree stumps and logs, growing for 4-7 yearsThe trust is asking people to report any sightings here., external

Epping Forest, Richmond Park, and Wimbledon & Putney Commons are designated European Special Areas for Conservation partly for stag beetles, a London Wildlife Trust spokesperson said.

"The males fly clumsily with a faint clattering whirr, and are most likely to be seen on sultry summer evenings an hour or two before dusk.

"A trust spokesperson said the species was "globally threatened" and the count would help better map the beetles' presence in London.


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