The technique practised at the Princes Risborough Laboratory for culturing Hylotrupes bajulus is described. It is modified from methods previously suggested by German workers. A protein and vitamin enriched wood diet to accelerate larval growth is employed and larvae are subsequently given a period of cool storage to induce pupation. Adults are confined in groups with prepared surfaces for egg laying: batches of eggs are removed daily and incubated over trays. Egg larvae fall into the trays as they hatch and are used for experimental work or for starting new cultures. The cycle takes under a year and adults, eggs and larvae can be available at any time throughout the year.

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