Description

Over all length 18 - 32mm. A fairly large beetle with large jaws (though not as large as Stag Beetles) of a uniform grey-black colour.

Habitat

A woodland species with a slight preference for Ash. The specimen photographed was found on the Ouse Dyke bank, beneath an Ash tree. The larvae feed on dry dead wood.

Status and distribution

Fairly widespread but local below a line from the Humber to the Ribble and not so common in the West, Wales and Cornwall. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire and recorded once at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

June to August.