Crane Fly
Scientific Name: Tipulidae (family)
Order & Family: Diptera (Order), Tipulidae (Family)
Size: Typically 2 to 60 mm (approximately 0.08 to 2.4 inches) in body length, with some tropical species larger. Wing spans can be up to 100 mm (4 inches).
Natural Habitat
Damp environments, often near water sources, woodlands, grasslands, and suburban areas.
Diet & Feeding
Adult crane flies generally feed on nectar or decaying plant matter, and some do not feed at all. Larvae (known as 'leatherjackets') are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter, roots of grasses, and other vegetation.
Behavior Patterns
Adult crane flies are often seen flying clumsily, particularly at dawn or dusk. They are attracted to lights at night. The larval stage is subterranean and can sometimes be a pest to lawns and crops by feeding on roots. Adults have a short lifespan, mainly focused on reproduction.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans; they do not bite or sting. Larvae can be considered a pest in lawns and turfgrass due to root feeding, especially in large numbers. Benefits include being a food source for birds, bats, and other insects, and their larvae contribute to decomposition in ecosystems.
Identified on: 9/23/2025