Don’t Kill This Insect Again As It Is Sold For N70m; Experts Reveal

Stag scarabs or stag beetles, among the most fascinating insects globally, vary in significance and allure but however, it remains a rare and challenging feat to spot and secure one of these prized creatures.

Capturing a live stag beetle could potentially make someone exceptionally wealthy.

However, it remains a rare and challenging feat to spot and secure one of these prized creatures.

Stag scarabs, among the most fascinating insects globally, vary in significance and allure.

While their existence is generally harmless and entertaining, male stag beetles, with an estimated lifespan of seven years, stand out as prized treasures, particularly due to their distinctive features.

Male stag beetles are characterized by their imposing antlers, notably large mandibles.

These mandibles serve multiple purposes, including elaborate displays during courtship rituals and engaging in combat with other male beetles.

Often observed flying at dusk in the summer to seek a mate, male stag beetles hold considerable value compared to their female counterparts.

Female beetles are smaller, ranging between 30-50mm in length, with less prominent mandibles, typically found on the ground as they search for suitable egg-laying sites.

According to Nedret Avcı, the head of Bilecik Municipality’s Veterinary Department, male stag beetles equipped with six antennae are highly sought after in Japan, where they are sold as both pets and collectibles, fetching prices ranging from $80,000 to $150,000 (approximately N35,000,000 to N150,000,000).

Last year, it was gathered that the value of the insect skyrocketed to over N70m.

This specie is also subject to transactions in Germany, making it an immensely valuable and coveted insect.

The distinctive traits of male stag beetles, coupled with their scarcity, contribute to their elevated status in certain markets, turning them into highly sought-after specimens for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Max Barclay, Senior Curator in Charge of the Museum’s beetle collection, said; ”Stag beetles are rare and threatened throughout northern Europe and the populations in the Thames Valley are some of the largest in the world. London is a particular stronghold.