Dynastes grantii ♂♀

Western hercules beetles like Dynastes grantii are a horned Scarab Beetle found most commonly in Arizona and the surrounding arid U.S. and Mexican states. Patterns of dark spots on the elytra (wing coverings) vary per individual. The beetle can be an earthy yellow, greyish blue color, or it may appear almost completely black, depending on how wet the beetle is. Males have a long 'horn' used to fight with other males over territory needed for mating. Females do not have horns. Younger males have a darker thorax and head that becomes lighter as they age. Both genders are attracted to light at night. They are not particularly aggressive toward humans. Adults feed on ash tree sap and can be found at higher elevations or in canyons. Grubs can be found in rotting wood, especially sycamore trees. It may take a few years before they mature into adults.