25 most spectacular and beautiful Beetle Species

The most famous beetles in the UK are probably ladybirds. But did you know that there are over 4,000 beetle species to spot here?

Plenty are easy to identify. Read on to discover 17 of the most colourful and striking British beetles - including a particularly vibrant ladybird.

Urban areas, even cities, have more beetles than you'd think. 'There are more than 2,000 species of beetles known from the London area,' says Max Barclay, Senior Curator in Charge of the Museum's beetle collection.

'London is even a stronghold for the rare greater stag beetle, the largest beetle in Britain. It is a truly impressive insect, which looks like it is from the tropics.

'Wherever there are green spaces - such as graveyards, parks and gardens - lots of different beetles can be found.'..