Eastern Hercules Beetles

Egg > Grub (Larva) > Pupa > Adult Beetle

Once hatched, your beetle begins its journey as a chubby little grub—its first magical form. This larval stage is the longest, lasting an average of 12 to 18 months as it munches through substrate and grows in secret beneath the surface.

After pupation, it emerges in its final, majestic form: the adult Hercules beetle. In this stage, they typically live 6 to 12 months, though some enchanted souls have been known to live even longer!

Grub / Larva Enclosure Set Up

A Cozy Burrow For Growing Knights

Grubs progress through three magical stages: L1, L2, and L3—each one larger and hungrier than the last!   Choose a deli cup that suits your grub’s current size and fill it to the brim with packed flake soil. The soil should be firm and moist, like the heart of an enchanted forest—never too soggy.

🧺 Maintenance Tip:   Replace the flake soil every 1 to 2 months to keep your little one’s world fresh and nutritious.

Adult Beetle Enclosure Set Up

A Woodland Realm Fit for a Titan

Once your beetle emerges in its full armored glory, it’s time for a grander space!  A 5-gallon tank or a secure plastic bin makes a perfect kingdom.

Line the enclosure with damp sphagnum moss, bark, or cork rounds to create a cozy, natural retreat. Think mossy glades and hidden hollows—just the kind of place a gentle giant would call home. 🌿🏰

Temperature 

Ideal Temperatures: 70-80 °F 

Humidity 

Aim for: 60 -80%

Mist lightly every few days to maintain moisture.

Lighting

No special lighting is needed. Avoid direct sunlight.

Grub / Larva

Grubs (larvae) feast exclusively on their substrate—flake soil! No extra snacks are needed, as the substrate provides all the nourishment they require. 

Just remember since they munch their way through it, be sure to refresh the flake soil every 1–2 months to keep their underground banquet fresh and plentiful.

Adult Beetle

Adult Hercules beetles like a variety of soft, juicy fruits—banana, apple, peach, and watermelon are all on the menu! For added convenience (and less mess), they also enjoy beetle jelly, which provides balanced nutrition in a tidy little treat.

Tip: Cut beetle jelly in half to avoid overfeeding and reduce waste.   

 Cleanliness Counts: Be sure to remove any uneaten food daily to prevent mold and keep your beetle’s realm fresh and healthy. 

Health: If your beetle seems sluggish, check your temperature and humidity levels.