Eastern Dobsonfly

Natural Habitat

Found near clean, fast-moving rivers and streams with rocky bottoms; adults are often attracted to porch lights at night.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae (Hellgrammites) are predatory, eating aquatic insects; adults eat very little or nothing at all, though they may consume nectar or fruit juices.

Behavior Patterns

Night-active insects that spend most of their life underwater as larvae for 2-3 years. Adults emerge for just a few days to mate and die. They are strong fliers but appear clumsy.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: Larvae are indicators of good water quality and are prized bait for fishermen. Risks: Females can deliver a painful bite if handled; males have large tusks (mandibles) that are intimidating but generally too weak to pierce skin.

Identified on: 4/14/2026