The Tanner

Prionus coriarius

The male's prominent, saw-like antennae are highly sensitive pheromone detectors used to locate females in the dark.

Scientific name: Prionus coriarius
Taxonomy: Animalia › Arthropoda › Insecta › Coleoptera › Cerambycidae › Prionus
IUCN Red List status: Least Concern
Population trend: stable
Biome: forest
Habitat: Deciduous and mixed woodlands, especially areas with abundant mature, decaying trees and rotting stumps.
Diet: Larvae feed on decaying wood and roots of oak, beech, and pine; adults do not feed, relying on larval energy reserves.
Range: Europe, North Africa, Near East, Caucasus
Size: 28 to 45 mm in length
Lifespan: 3 to 4 years as larvae; 2 to 4 weeks as adults
Active: crepuscular
Threats: Modern forestry practices that remove deadwood and old stumps, leading to habitat fragmentation.
Safe to approach?: Harmless to humans but defensive if handled. Its powerful mandibles can deliver a painful pinch. Observe from a safe distance. If pinched, wash the area with soap and water to prevent secondary infection.

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Photo: gbohne, CC-BY-SA, via iNaturalist