Over many years, we have searched for evidence of this striking and colorful large longhorn beetle — and eventually found a few. For its continued survival, it depends heavily on deadwood, particularly beech.

Wood piles can become ecological traps, as the beetle lays its eggs in the crevices of the beechwood. The larvae feed within the drying wood and only return to the surface after three to four years.

Pupation and emergence of the beetle — which, due to its vivid coloring, appears almost exotic — can only occur if the firewood stack remains in place for that entire period.