Crane Fly

Found worldwide in moist environments such as meadows, forests, marshes, and near freshwater sources; often seen indoors attracted to lights.

Adults mostly do not feed or drink nectar; larvae (leatherjackets) eat decaying organic matter, plant roots, and fungi.

Adults are active from spring to autumn, primarily at dusk. They have a very short lifespan (a few days) focused on mating. They are often mistaken for giant mosquitoes but do not bite.

Harmless to humans as they lack biting mouthparts. Larvae are beneficial decomposers but can occasionally damage turf or crops if present in high numbers.