Lesser stag beetle risk from mulch

We've a number of lime log slices we've been using to display pots. They're now beginning to fall apart all over the path. I was planning to use the resultant wood chip as mulch, but noticed a lot of lesser stag beetle larvae in the wood (some adults too, so definitely lesser stag beetles, not their endangered greater cousins).

I've read that, although not usually pests, lesser stag beetle larvae sometimes eat roots.

Does anyone know if I'd be safe to use the chip as mulch (or even to add bulk to the grass clippings in my composter), or whether I'll just have to chuck it all in case there are some lesser stag beetle eggs in there. Seems a shame.

Thanks for your expert thoughts.

 

i would try and save the beetles - do you have a nature area in your garden? its brilliant to pile a few logs and let it go a little wild so the creatures have somewhere to thrive - mine is at the back of my pond and i get all sorts in there

loopy

 

just had a google looks like they are all protected so i suggest you get on to your local wildlife people for advice

http://frontpage.woodland-trust.org.uk/ancient-tree-forum/atfnews/images/stagbeetles.pdf


loopy

 

Thanks for your thoughts.

Unfortunately my garden's quite small - these logs were next to the path, and the problem is they're just crumbling to dust. My understanding is that the beetles really need logs, and all I have left is dust!

I mentioned that these are lesser stag beetles, which are very common. It's the greater stag beetles that are protected.

Even if I can think of a way to save the beetles, I'd still like to know what the risks might be of using the crumbled logs as mulch.

Anyone know?

 

Hear hear Marley!