
Community identification
Crane Fly
Tipulidae (family)
- Order & Family
- Order: Diptera, Family: Tipulidae
- Size
- 2 to 60 mm (0.08 to 2.4 in) wing span
Natural Habitat
Grassy areas, wetlands, and around outdoor lights
Diet & Feeding
Adults mostly do not eat or drink nectar; larvae (leatherjackets) eat roots and decaying organic matter
Behavior Patterns
Poor fliers, attracted to lights at night, often mistaken for giant mosquitoes
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting; larvae can be garden pests by damaging lawns