Species: Chalcosoma chiron
Location: San Francisco, 766 Valencia St.

This is one BIG boy. In fact, the Chalcosoma chiron is one of the largest beetles in Asia and can grow up to 5 inches long. But it’s not all about size when it comes to these beetles and why we love them. Yeah, they are gigantic and make for a cool centerpiece in any entomology collection, but they are also introverts that live underground most of their lives and then emerge to engage in beetle MMA. For some reason, that resonates with us… but more on that later.

Native to Southeast Asia, the Chalcosoma chiron spends most of its life as a larva, living in rotting wood or rich soil and eating its surroundings. If nothing else, it’s convenient. The males need to eat a lot of their decaying home because, in 12–15 months, they need to be in shape and ready for a title fight after emerging from their pupal stage. These beetles exhibit sexual dimorphism, meaning the males and females vary in some pretty big ways. The males get gigantic and grow three horns on the top of their head, whereas the females don’t. These horns aren’t just edgy fashion statements either—they use them to duel other males for mating rights.

Like all fair and sanctioned fights, these battles happen high off the forest floor, in the treetops, with the winner being the beetle that threw the other out of the tree. Seems like an easier way for the female to determine the winner. It’s like Love Island for beetles but mixed with WWE. Side note: we would definitely watch that show if it was a thing.

Anyway, the good times and throwing others off the top don’t last forever. In their adult stage, Chalcosoma chiron lives for about 3–5 months. They live fast, play hard, and drink as much tree sap as possible before it’s all over.

There’s more to go over about the Chalcosoma chiron, but if you want to know how the first season of Beetle Love Island: Smack Down ends, you just gotta take the class.

About the class:

In this hands-on, two-hour class, you will learn the full process of beetle pinning, from hydration to pinning and preservation. Our expert instructor will guide you step by step, and you will use a Paxton Gate spreading kit to transform your beetle into a preserved specimen you will get to take home and show off.

Inside each kit, you will receive:

• 1 Box of entomology pins
• 1 Anchor pin
• 4 Strips vellum paper
• Forceps
• Pinning board
  
• Instruction pamphlet

Important Details:

Classes will be held at 766 Valencia St., San Francisco.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Cancellations must be made at least 72 hours before the class to receive store credit, redeemable for merchandise or future classes.
Pre-registration is required, as materials must be prepared for each student and space is very limited. Please arrive promptly at the start time. Students are encouraged to bring lunch or snacks.