Have you spotted a rare stag beetle? Please report any sightings!

The stag beetle is one of the largest and most impressive beetle species in Europe; males can grow up to eight centimeters in length. From June through August, these beetles are most active on warm summer evenings. In Jena, too, isolated specimens have been found in recent years, and suitable habitats are available in the forests surrounding the city. The city of Jena is therefore calling on residents to report sightings of this rare beetle and thus make an important contribution to species conservation. After all, you can only protect what you know about.

Stag beetles prefer open deciduous forests with old oak trees, deadwood, and tree stumps. However, they can also be found in orchard meadows or on old fruit trees. Anyone who spots these beetles should simply observe them and under no circumstances disturb or collect them.

Important Data for Species Conservation

The stag beetle is listed nationwide on the Red List of endangered species and is considered critically endangered. It is also protected throughout Europe. To better protect its habitats, up-to-date information on its distribution is of great importance.

Every sighting helps experts better map the species’ distribution and develop appropriate conservation measures. That is why the City of Jena, NABU Thuringia, and the Thuringian State Office for the Environment, Mining, and Nature Conservation (TLUBN) are asking for your support in this year’s stag beetle search.

Report sightings with a photo if possible

To rule out confusion with similar beetle species, sightings should be documented with a photo whenever possible. Stag beetles are occasionally mistaken for other large beetles such as the rhinoceros beetle or the longhorn beetle.

Reports can be submittedvia the “Meine Umwelt” appfor Thuringia or through the NABU Thuringiawebsite . It is helpful to provide details on the location of the sighting, the date of observation, the number of beetles, and—if possible—photos of the beetles. Information about the habitat or any potential disturbances is also welcome.

Those interested can find more information about the stag beetle search and download the “Meine Umwelt” app on the website of the Thuringian State Office for the Environment, Mining, and Nature Conservation.