Generic Distinctions. Antennæ, the four terminal joints project on one side; head as wide as the thorax, maxillæ, terminating in a slender lobe; mandibles very large.
   LUCANUS CERVUS. The male of the Stag-Beetle is about two inches in length, including the mandibles; it is entirely of a brownish-black colour, the surface shining and covered with small punctures; near the fore leg is a patch of golden-coloured hair, which seems to be used for the purpose of cleaning the antennae. The female is considerably smaller than the male, the mandibles are also short, and the head much smaller.
   The very formidable mandibles of this Beetle are employed in wounding the bark of trees, in order to feed on the sap. Mr. Waterhouse kept one alive for many weeks, feeding it on sugar and water; it also seemed fond of the juice of raspberries and other sweet substances. The perfect insect is found on the trunk of the oak, elm, and willow, and appears generally towards the middle of summer.