
Community identification
Crane Fly
Tipulidae (Family)
- Order & Family
- Order Diptera, Family Tipulidae
- Size
- 2 to 60 mm (0.08 to 2.4 inches) in body length, with a wingspan up to 10 cm.
Natural Habitat
Moist environments, including wetlands, woodlands, and grassy areas near water.
Diet & Feeding
Adults mostly do not eat or consume nectar; larvae (leatherjackets) eat decaying organic matter, plant roots, or aquatic organisms.
Behavior Patterns
Poor flyers often seen resting on vegetation or walls; the image shows a mating pair in an 'end-to-end' position. They are nocturnal or crepuscular.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting; larvae help decompose organic matter but can occasionally damage turf or crops.