Goliath beetles are among the heaviest insects on Earth. Their collection for museums and hobbyists, combined with forest loss, raises welfare and conservation concerns across central Africa.
Goliath beetles are captured using protein-baited traps and killed by freezing — a method that may cause prolonged suffering before death. As insects with complex nervous systems and apparent sensory awareness, the precautionary principle suggests minimising unnecessary harm. Their removal from ecosystems reduces the decomposition services they provide. Captive rearing for the hobby trade is possible and preferable to wild collection.