Male Peruvian Beetle. Common name: Harlequin Beetle. These insects are encased between two panes of glass and mounted in finely crafted oak shadow boxes. ENVIRONMENTAL & PRESERVATION NOTICE: Although one might intuitively feel that insect sales must be harmful to species, scientific evidence proves just the opposite. The raising and collection by hand of insects provides the money to encourage habitat preservation. If a rainforest dweller can gain a living by selling a crop of insects each year, she can resist the lure of one time only money to sell off the forest to a lumber company or the need for destructive forms of slash and burn agriculture. Permit systems are in place all around the world for the farming and collection of insects. This system of licenses, permits and inspections insure that nothing endangered is sold and that the harvest is sustainable. Governments in tropical countries are encouraging insect sales as a way to save their forests. All these shipments are inspected by U.S. Fish & Wildlife. One amazing success story is that of birdwing butterflies, some of the largest and most beautiful of butterfly species. The species for which farming and sales have been allowed have been brought back from the brink of extinction. Many once sold on the black market for thousands of dollars each, but are now legally available for $100 or less because farming has made them prolific again. Insect farmers and ranchers always take care to release a portion back into the wild to insure next years crop. Treat this insect specimen as you would any fine art object. Avoid exposure to extremes of temperature, humidity, or to direct sunlight. With proper care you will enjoy this marvel of the natural world for many decades to come. MORE INFORMATIONFrame size: 10"x12". Note: Specimen size, coloration and frame finish may slightly vary.
