Long-legged Fly

Scientific Name: Condylostylus spp.

Order & Family: Diptera: Dolichopodidae

Size: 4 to 9 mm in length

Long-legged Fly

Natural Habitat

Found in gardens, woodlands, and meadows, typically on the surface of broad leaves in sunny spots.

Diet & Feeding

Predatory as both adults and larvae; they feed on smaller soft-bodied insects like aphids, thrips, and mites.

Behavior Patterns

Known for their rapid, jerky movements and metallic appearance. Males often perform complex wing-flicking displays during courtship while perched on leaves.

Risks & Benefits

Highly beneficial to ecosystems and gardens as natural pest controllers. They pose no risk to humans as they do not bite or sting.

Identified on: 4/21/2026