Holly D'Oench
Artist & Naturalist

The goliath beetle (Goliathus orientalis) is one of the largest species in the Goliathus genus. The females can get up 2.6 inches (65 mm) and the males up to 4 inches (100 mm). In terms of weight and bulk, they are one of the largest insects in the world. Despite their size, they fly very well! They can be found in Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

​

You can tell the male from the female by size but also by the presence or absence of black horns on their head. Males have them and they are used in battle with other males and for digging into food. The adult beetles feed on sap and fruit because they are rich in sugar.