Getting eggs from stag beetles requires the right set-up.
There are two main ways to set it up, but it varies depending on the species of stag beetle and may require prior research and knowledge.
In this post, I will explain how to set-up using a breeding logs.
📌 Obtain the case to set-up.
🚩 I'm using the 4 gallon size,
But the size of the case does not matter as long as the breeding logs can be placed inside comfortably.
📌 Fill the substrate in the case and compact it firmly to a depth of 1 to 2 inches.
🚩 The reason for doing this is that some species of stag beetles also can lay eggs on compacted substrates and larvae that fall from the logs can naturally eat the substrate.
📌 Soak the breeding logs in water to control moisture.
🚩 This may seem simple, but it is the part where people make the most mistakes.
It is difficult to explain the exact time cuz the time to soak in water varies depending on the size and quality of the breeding logs even dry state.
However, one thing to keep in mind is that dry breeding logs will not cause any problems, but breeding logs with excessive moisture will continue to rot inside the case, significantly lowering the egg laying rate and egg hatching rate.
So, I generally only soak them in water for 5-10 minutes.
📌 Let the breeding logs dry.
🚩 Drying time varies depending on the moisture content of the breeding logs.
When you press the cut surface of the breeding logs with your fingernail, it should be dried to the point where the logs does not break easily and leaves a fingernail mark.
 
📌 Remove the bark and clean the surface.
🚩 The breeding logs usually has multiple holes because it was used for growing mushrooms.
If those holes are not cleaned thoroughly, there is a chance that the mushroom mycelium can spread.
I know you will get interesting about this, but mycelium are a pretty big risk for stag beetle eggs and L1 larvae.
📌 Place the breeding logs on the substrate.
📌 Fill the substrate tightly around the breeding logs.
The logs must be firmly anchored with substrate to prevent it from moving.
🚩 Breeding logs can also continuously absorb moisture through the substrate.
This means that the moisture in the logs can be regulated through the substrate.
📌 Place the jellies and screen mesh to prevent stag beetles from flipping over.
🚩 You can add tree bark or something else, but artificial products are recommended to prevent mold.
📌 Put the female into the completed case.
🚩 Since there is a possibility of unfertilized egg, it is appropriate to check whether eggs have been laid every 1-2 months.
However, once the confirmation process has been completed, the settings must be set again from the beginning.
🚩 Generally, the ideal temperature for stag beetles to lay eggs is between 73 ~ 80°F.
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🔎 Example of set-up
🚩 In my case, I usually cover the breeding logs at least 90%.
It maintains moisture in the logs and can prevent mold.
However, If you want to increase the exposure area, there is the way you can just cover the logs with rhino larvae poop to use.
I think this part needs some explanation, so I will post it later.
