Hercules Beetle

insects · beetles · tropical · record-breakers

Longest beetle ever. The Hercules beetle holds the record as the longest beetle species alive today. Some individuals can grow up to 7 inches long, making them true giants of the insect world.

Super strong horns. Male Hercules beetles have two enormous curved horns on their heads that they use to wrestle with other males for territory and mates. These horns can be as long as the beetle's body.

Tropical home. Hercules beetles live in the rainforests of Central and South America, from Mexico all the way down to the Lesser Antilles islands. They thrive in warm, humid forest environments.

Giant flying insect. Even though they weigh about as much as a golf ball, Hercules beetles can actually fly. They are one of the largest insects capable of flight on the planet.

Nocturnal wanderers. Hercules beetles are most active at night when they search the forest floor and trees for rotting wood and fruit to eat.