The stag beetle, which can reach up to nine centimeters in length, is easily recognizable by its large jaws. It is rare in Sweden except in parts of Blekinge, Kalmar, and Östergötland, and in Stockholm County it is mainly found in Nynäshamn, an area with old oaks. The biggest threats to the beetle are overgrown pastures and dense spruce forests, and it has declined sharply in northern Europe in recent decades.
All EU member states must report the stag beetle's status every six years. se. The campaign is a collaboration between 13 county administrative boards and the Swedish Species Information Centre, coordinated by the County Administrative Board of Östergötland.
Nicklas Jansson, a biologist at the board, said the large number of reports in 2020 may reflect a positive impact from climate change, and that the reports are valuable for conservation efforts. Martin Elmestål, an environmental officer at the County Administrative Board of Stockholm, noted that the beetle is known in Nynäshamn but could appear in new municipalities, urging people to keep their eyes open.