The curious life of the Oil beetle: Nature’s tiny traveller at the Cholderton Estate

Hidden among the grasses and wildflowers of our meadows is a rather extraordinary insect—one that’s become something of a mascot for the wild and wonderful biodiversity we’re so proud to protect here at The Cholderton Estate. Meet the Oil beetle—a glossy, slow-moving beetle with a life cycle so strange and specialised, it feels like something from another universe.

A Violet oil beetle, spotted here in April.

A Beetle with a Twist

Oil beetles aren’t just rare—they’re downright peculiar. Unlike many beetles, they don’t fly, and their survival is intricately tied to another insect: the solitary bee. In early spring, female Oil beetles lay hundreds of eggs in the soil. When the larvae (called triungulins) hatch, they clamber up onto nearby flowers and wait patiently. Their goal? To hitch a ride on a solitary bee.

A Farm That Works for Wildlife

At The Cholderton Estate, we’re not just passionate about farming—we’re passionate about farming with nature. Our organic methods ensure that no harmful pesticides or herbicides disrupt the delicate balance of our ecosystems. And through regenerative practices—like rotational grazing, soil restoration, wildflower margins, and beetle banks—we’re helping to build the kind of rich, diverse habitat where species like the Oil beetle can thrive.

Our wildflower meadows are carefully managed to support pollinators, and by maintaining scrub edges and undisturbed ground, we provide the exact micro-habitats these rare beetles need.

The return of the Oil beetle is a sign that nature is healing—and it’s something we’re proud to share with every guest who walks our fields or relaxes under our wide open skies.

Come and Tread Lightly

Whether you’re a keen naturalist or just someone who loves the countryside, The Cholderton Estate offers a chance to reconnect with the land. Our accommodation is tucked into the heart of this living landscape—perfect for slow mornings, long walks, and maybe even a glimpse of an Oil beetle trundling through the grass.