Huhu beetle

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The Huhu beetle (Prionoplus reticularis) is the largest native beetle found in New Zealand, a member of Cerambycidae, the family of longhorn beetles.

It is known to the Maori as Pepe tunga. The whitish larvae are up to 70 mm long. They are edible, and are said to taste like buttery chicken (although a contrary opinion is in the 'Discussion' page).

A common name for the beetle is a haircutter because of the long legs and antenna covered with sharp hooks. If a beetle lands in the head of a person, they become so entangled in the hair that scissors must be used for extraction.

The beetles are most active at night and are often heard flying into window panes with a loud thump, attracted by the lights of the dwelling.

External link

[Landcare Research] - data

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