Updated Feb 2024
Hercules beetles, horn beetles, unicorn beetles. All names for the local bug called the Rhino beetle. If you want to impress your friends, memorize the scientific name: dynastes Hercules. These amazing bugs are well known and easily recognizable for their large horn-like appendages. So, why in the world are we writing a blog post about them? Well, they are special to the area, and come out to visit every year during August and September! Our kids vacillate between being enthralled with them and terrified. To be honest, I am too, haha!
The male bugs actually FIGHT each other by locking horns in order to try to attract the attention of females during mating season. How crazy is that?! They are completely safe and harmless for humans, and are actually popular pets! If you’re lucky enough to spot one, you may hear it make a hissing sound. It creates the hiss by rubbing its abdomen against its wing covers.
If you see one, try and get brave and snap a selfie with our famous local bugs!
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