Bug Identifier
Crane Fly
Community identification

Crane Fly

Tipulidae (Family)

Order & Family
Order: Diptera; Family: Tipulidae
Size
Varies by species; typically 10 to 65 mm in body length with long, slender legs.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found worldwide in moist environments such as woodlands, meadows, and wetlands; often seen near water or light sources at night.

Diet & Feeding

Adults mostly do not eat or consume only nectar; larvae (leatherjackets) typically feed on decaying organic matter, plant roots, or fungi.

Behavior Patterns

Weak fliers that are often attracted to porch lights. The larvae live in soil or water, and the adults live only long enough to mate and lay eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans as they do not bite or sting. In the ecosystem, they serve as a food source for birds, bats, and other insects; however, some larvae can be pests to lawn grass.