Giant Stag Beetle

Lucanus elaphus, the giant stag beetle, elk stag beetle, or erroneously as the elephant stag beetle, is a beetle of the family Lucanidae native to eastern North America. They are sometimes kept as pets. Scientific Name: Lucanus elaphus Range: Eastern United States Size: Males up to 6 cm including jaws Status: Native ID Notes: Males have huge, branching antler-like mandibles. Reddish-brown elytra. Behavior / Notes: Larvae develop in decaying hardwood. Adults attracted to lights. Habitat loss is reducing populations.