The Reddish-brown Stag Beetle is a large, handsome beetle with reddish-brown elytra and males bearing noticeably enlarged mandibles used in wrestling contests for mating opportunities. It is nocturnal and is attracted to lights in summer. Larvae live several years in decomposing hardwood stumps and roots, playing an important role in wood decomposition.
Habitat
Deciduous forests with rotting stumps and logs
Diet
Larvae: rotting hardwood. Adults: tree sap
How common
Uncommon
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