Leatherjacket (Crane Fly Larva)

Natural Habitat

Damp soil, lawns, pastures, and garden beds; often found under grass roots or leaf litter.

Diet & Feeding

Herbivorous; they feed on the roots and stems of grasses, crops, and various garden plants.

Behavior Patterns

They are the larval stage of the crane fly. They live underground during the winter and feed most aggressively in early spring before pupating and emerging as adult flies in late summer or autumn.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: They are considered a pest because they can cause significant damage to lawns and agricultural crops by destroying root systems. Benefits: They serve as a vital food source for birds, such as starlings, and other wildlife.

Identified on: 3/16/2026