Stag beetle hotspot Thuringia: Protect our endangered giants!

Stag beetle hotspot Thuringia: Protect our endangered giants!

In the summer months of June to August you can easily observe the impressive stag beetles (Lucanus cervus) swarming in Thuringia. These fascinating beetles, which are best known for the striking jaws of the males, feel particularly at home in sparse, old oak stands and orchards. But the beautiful animals are not only a rare sight, they are also on the Red List of Endangered Species. In Thuringia and nationwide they fall into category 2: highly endangered. That reports nnz online.

The Thuringian State Office for the Environment, Mining and Nature Conservation (TLUBN) and NABU Thuringia have been campaigning for the protection of this species with a stag beetle reporting campaign since 2015. Important facts for reporting the beetles include location, date, gender, number of observations and photos. These digital images are crucial to avoid confusion with similar species such as the barred croaker, which is often mistaken for a female stag beetle. Other useful information includes possible impairments of the habitat and the habitat description.

Habitat and protection

To protect stag beetles, it is important to document their occurrence. The region is considered a hotspot for stag beetles, and there are many reports from areas such as Eisenach and the Wartburg district. Here, the Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werratal Landscape Conservation Association and the Eichsfeld-Hainich-Werratal Nature Park work closely together to support appropriate protective measures. Particular attention is paid to the old tree stumps, which act as nests and are important for the beetles to reproduce. These habitats must be well looked after by property owners and administrations so that they are preserved.

When is the best time to observe stag beetles? Warm summer evenings and dusk are perfect for a view. You can also be lucky in the main distribution areas during the day. When looking for the impressive beetles, experts recommend concentrating on the base of trees or bushes, where they are often found. It is also important to keep a close eye on the beetles; Large animals are easily visible with a little patience.

Interesting facts about the stag beetle

Stag beetles can grow up to 8 cm, while females are closer to 25 to 40 mm. Their smooth, shiny wing coverts are chestnut brown, which clearly sets them apart from their relatives, such as the barred bird. In order not only to preserve these beautiful creatures, but also to learn more about their way of life, the exchange and creation of knowledge about their occurrence is essential. Everyone can contribute by paying attention to nests, especially during construction, and sharing their knowledge.

Removal or collection of stag beetles is prohibited by law, except in emergency situations when immobile beetles are found on smooth surfaces or in water. In these cases, the beetles can be safely released to return them to natural life. These species protection measures are central to ensuring the continued existence of stag beetles in the long term. If you would like to find out more about reporting and protecting stag beetles, you can find comprehensive information on the TLUBN and NABU Thuringia websites as well as on the Environmental portal Thuringia.

The attention and engagement of the population is crucial. If we all pay a little more attention to our nature, then future generations will also be able to experience these fascinating beetles and observe them in their habitats - a nice thought for the coming summers!