Crane Fly
Scientific Name: Tipula species
Order & Family: Order: Diptera, Family: Tipulidae
Size: Varies by species, typically 1 to 2 inches (25–50 mm) in wingspan with very long legs.
Natural Habitat
Commonly found in moist areas like lawns, gardens, woodlands, and near bodies of water.
Diet & Feeding
Adults mostly do not eat or consume nectar; larvae (leatherjackets) eat decaying organic matter or plant roots.
Behavior Patterns
Attracted to lights at night; often mistaken for giant mosquitoes but are weak flyers and relatively short-lived as adults.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. Larvae can sometimes damage lawn roots, but adults serve as a food source for birds and bats.
Identified on: 6/4/2026