Crane Fly
Scientific Name: Tipulidae (Family name)
Order & Family: Order: Diptera, Family: Tipulidae
Size: Varies by species, typically 1 to 2 inches (2 to 5 cm) in wingspan.
Natural Habitat
Commonly found in temperate, moist regions near bodies of water or grassy fields; often enter homes near lights.
Diet & Feeding
Adults often do not eat and have short lives; some species drink nectar. Larvae (leatherjackets) eat decaying organic matter or plant roots.
Behavior Patterns
Attracted to outdoor and indoor lights at night. They are clumsy flyers and are frequently mistaken for giant mosquitoes but do not bite.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans as they do not sting or bite. Larvae can sometimes damage lawns, but they serve as a vital food source for birds, fish, and other wildlife.
Identified on: 3/4/2026