Live Stag Beetles For Sale: A Guide to Purchasing These Majestic Insects

Stag beetles are some of the most spectacular insects in the world. Their large mandibles and striking coloration make them popular among insect enthusiasts. For those looking to add these insects to their collection live stag beetles for sale can often be found from specialized breeders and sellers. This guide covers everything you need to know about purchasing live stag beetles for sale.

An Overview of Stag Beetles

Stag beetles belong to the family Lucanidae. There are over 1,200 species found around the world, but they are most diverse in tropical regions. They get their name from the mandibles of the males that resemble the antlers of stags. These mandibles are used to wrestle with other males to win over a mate.

Stag beetles have an oval shaped body that can range from 5mm to over 100mm in length depending on the species. Their colors vary wildly, with metallic greens, vibrant reds, deep purples and black being common. The mandibles of males can be equally as diverse, featuring hooks, serrations, and more that are used to grasp and wrestle.

While stag beetles live most of their lives underground as larvae, the adults are active above ground feeding on tree sap, fruit and other sources of sugary liquid. Adult stag beetles only live for a few months to a year at most.

Some of the most popular and striking species kept as pets include

• Giraffe Stag Beetle – Recognizable for its extremely long neck and orange coloration.

• Atlas Beetle – Metallic green species named after Atlas from Greek mythology because of its strength.

• Hercules Beetle – Includes multiple species with very large mandibles like the Eastern Hercules and Dynastes Tityus.

Why Keep Live Stag Beetles?

Stag beetles make fascinating pets and living works of art for insect enthusiasts. Here are some of the main benefits of keeping live stag beetles:

• Unique appearance – Their metallic colors and horns make them like no other insect. They are sure to be a conversation piece.

• Low maintenance – Requiring only simple habitat setups, regular misting and feeding 1-2 times a week.

• Short lifespans – With most species living under a year, they are great for those not wanting a decades long commitment.

• Observable behaviors – Watching them feed, wrestle each other, and go through changes as they mature can be highly educational and entertaining.

• Rebreeding – With some experience, you can even attempt breeding certain species to get larvae and have new beetles emerge.

For those seeking an unusually charismatic insect specimen, stag beetles make excellent candidates that will not disappoint.

Purchasing Captive Bred vs. Wild Caught

When searching for live stag beetles for sale, you generally have two options – captive bred or wild caught.

Captive bred beetles are ideal because:

• They are already adapted to enclosed habitats and human handling

• No concerns about parasite/disease risks from the wild

• Does not deplete wild populations through over harvesting

• Often healthier and live longer life spans

The downside is captive bred stag beetles tend to be more expensive than wild caught. However, the benefits are well worth the extra upfront investment for a healthier, longer living pet.

Wild caught stag beetles are cheaper, but have some distinct disadvantages:

• More nervous and prone to stress which can lead to reduced lifespans

• Higher risk of carrying diseases and parasites

• Unsure of exact species identification and origins

• Contributes to over harvesting threats on wild populations

It’s recommended to only purchase wild caught stag beetles if they are sustainably and legally sourced. Otherwise, paying extra for the benefits of captive bred beetles is advisable for most owners.

Caring for Stag Beetles

Successfully keeping stag beetles requires specialized care and setups. Here are some tips:

Habitats – Stag beetles need humid, warm environments between 70-85°F. Enclosed terrariums are ideal, filled with substrate like peat moss or potting soil and pieces of rotten wood for hiding. The more space the better.

Food – Feed foods high in sugars and nutrients like sliced fruit, maple syrup, and specialized beetle jelly. Provide fresh pieces 2-3 times per week.

Water – Mist terrariums daily to maintain high humidity levels. Provide small dishes of water soaked into cotton or sponges for hydration.

Handling – Stag beetles can be handled gently, but avoid touching their wings and legs. Never grab them by their mandibles or horns which can injure them.

With the proper setup and care, most species can live for many months up to a year in captivity. Performing research on the specific needs of the species you purchase is recommended.

Where to Buy Live Stag Beetles

Here are some top recommended sources for purchasing live stag beetles:

• Online exotic pet stores – Many reptile and amphibian focused online stores also sell insects like beetles. These include sites like Backwater Reptiles and Josh’s Frogs.

• Specialty beetle sellers – The best option is companies dedicated specifically to invertebrates and beetles like JamJam Exotic and James’ Beetle Farm. They offer the widest selections and expertise.

• Individual breeders – Experienced stag beetle hobbyists often sell extra stock from their breeding efforts. Searching sites like Facebook groups and forums can help you connect with breeders selling specimens.

• Insect conventions and expos – Large open conventions for exotic pets and insects are great places to find many types of beetles for sale from multiple vendors and breeders in one place.

When evaluating sellers, be sure to check for good reviews, healthy insect policies, guarantees and fair pricing. Only purchase from reputable sources for the best experience.

Costs of Purchasing Stag Beetles

Prices for live stag beetles can range considerably based on species, size, and whether they are captive bred or wild caught. Here are some general price ranges:

• Common species like Harlequin Flower Beetles or Swarming Leaf Beetles – $10-$30 each

• Uncommon species like Dorcus Anteaters or Ox Beetles – $20-$60 each

• Rare species like Atlas Beetles or Hercules Beetles – $50-$150 each

• Extra rare/large species like Goliath Beetles – $200+ each

Be prepared to pay higher prices for specialty species imported from exotic locales like South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Cheaper prices are often available for beetles sourced closer to where you live.

Prices are also heavily influenced by the size of the beetle. Larger mature males with better developed horns and mandibles understandably command higher prices than smaller juvenile specimens.

Whether buying common species for just a few dozen dollars or prized specimens for over $200, live stag beetles for sale can fit a wide range of budgets for bug aficionados.

Buying Live Stag Beetles Safely

To ensure getting healthy beetles and having a good purchasing experience, here are some tips:

• Ask about guarantees – Many sellers offer full or partial refunds if your beetle arrives deceased or dies shortly after from underlying health issues.

• Inquire about shipping methods – Beetles should be shipped overnight in insulated boxes with heat packs. Avoid slow shipping that risks exposure to extreme temperatures.

• Review breeding and care – Reputable sellers should provide detailed care instructions for the specific species you purchase. Follow them closely.

• Acclimate new arrivals – Let newly arrived beetles settle into their new home and recover from shipping stress before initially handling.

• Quarantine if concerned – Set up separate temporary enclosures away from other insects when first bringing stag beetles home to watch for potential health issues.

• Examine specimens upon arrival – Carefully inspect beetles for damage, dehydration, lethargy or other problems and contact the seller if any are apparent.

Taking the time to find high-quality sellers and being prepared to properly handle your new beetles when they arrive is key to getting your investment off to a good start.

Enjoying Your Live Stag Beetles

Once you have successfully purchased and transitioned live stag beetles into their permanent habitats, you’ll be able to relax and enjoy observing and interacting with them. Here are some rewarding activities:

• Watching them feed – It’s fascinating to witness their behaviors and mouthpart movements up close while eating.

• Admiring their colors and forms – Take time to note all the intricate details and variations across their bodies, legs, wings and horns.

• Photographing them – Try getting macro shots that really capture their alien-like features. You’ll get some amazing images.

• Letting them crawl on hands – If gently handled, many stag beetles will walk across hands, fingers, and arms while exploring. Feel those tiny feet!

• Keeping records of growth/changes – Maintain notes on molting, maturity, and other developments in your beetles as they go through their life stages.

Owning such a unique living creature is a one of a kind experience. With proper care and appreciation for their biology, live stag beetles can offer their owners years of enjoyment and natural wonder.

Summary

From selecting the right species to housing setups to feeding, purchasing and raising live stag beetles requires some specialized knowledge. Follow this guide’s tips from researching reputable sellers to providing proper daily care and you’ll be prepared to add these insects to your collection. Their stunning looks, behaviors, and relatively simple care requirements make stag beetles ideal pet bugs. Just be ready to put in the work needed to meet their needs, and your new beetle will thrive while wowing all who see it.