The epic metamorphosis of the Hercules beetle

The Hercules beetle is one of the largest flying insects in the world, and in this astonishing National Geographic video, we watch it go from larva to giant, before our eyes.

A species of rhinoceros beetle native to the rainforests of Central America, South America and the Lesser Antilles, it is named for the mythological Greek hero known for his outsize strength. Males of the species have been recorded to reach up to 17cm in length, horns included.

View the original video here.

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