The short-necked oil beetle, which secretes a yellow-orange oil from its knee joints when alarmed, has been rediscovered at Castlemartin Range in Pembrokeshire. Surveys in 2022 and 2025 found only dead adults; this year’s larvae suggest it is breeding again. Only about one in 10,000 larvae reaches adulthood.
(c) Robert Owen-Wahl

Rare beetle found again in Wales after nearly 60 years

HUMANE WORLD

The short-necked oil beetle, which secretes a yellow-orange oil from its knee joints when alarmed, has been rediscovered at Castlemartin Range in Pembrokeshire. Surveys in 2022 and 2025 found only dead adults; this year’s larvae suggest it is breeding again. Only about one in 10,000 larvae reaches adulthood.

Read Full Story
← Back

Related Posts

Most Read

Researchers in China have 3D-printed a cement-based supercapacitor that stores electricity while retaining compressive strength comparable to concrete used in slabs and stairs, lighting LEDs and other small devices. The scaling, durability and cold-weather limits are being tested.
3D-printed concrete stores electricity while bearing loads
Rheas return to Patagonia National Park after years of work
Between 2022 and 2024, no baby born in Barbados acquired HIV from their mother, and WHO has certified the country as having eliminated mother-to-child transmission. Some 98% of pregnant women were tested for HIV, and 98% of those with HIV received treatment. Care is free for all pregnant women, whatever their nationality.
Barbados eliminates mother-to-child HIV transmission, WHO certifies
Colorado opens first US public nature library with adventure gear