A Rhinoceros of the Insect World: The Western Hercules Beetle
In the northern regions of Arizona, a peculiar beetle can be found that resembles a miniature rhinoceros due to its distinctive appearance.
This intriguing insect, known as the Western Hercules Beetle, can be identified by its large grey body with irregular black spots. Male beetles are especially notable for their two prominent horns.
During the initial two years of their existence, these beetles remain out of sight, spending this time as larvae nestled within decomposing logs and old stumps, consuming rotting wood. Mid-summer marks a transformative period, where they encase themselves in a hardened shell made from their own excrement, transitioning into pupae and eventually adult beetles over the course of thirty days.
When late summer brings humidity, adult Western Hercules Beetles emerge. As one of the largest flying insects in North America, they measure between two to three inches long. These beetles are typically found in riparian areas with ash trees, from locations like Flagstaff and Prescott to Payson and along the Verde Valley. Their activity peaks from late July to October.
To observe these beetles, one should look upwards at ash trees, as adult beetles often rest on branches that are at least six feet above the ground.
During the breeding season, male beetles exhibit a behavior known as ‘lekking.’ They strip bark from the base of ash trees, creating sap-leaking wounds to lure females. When rivals appear, males engage in battles, locking horns to win over a mate.
After fulfilling their role in mating, male beetles die, while females continue to live for an additional two to four months. During this time, females lay their eggs in decaying wood, thus starting the life cycle anew.
Authored by Diane Hope, this Earth Note was produced by KNAU and the Sustainable Communities Program at Northern Arizona University.
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