Crane Flies

Tipulidae

Crane Fly

Crane fly (Jessica Louque, Smithers Viscient, Bugwood.org)

Crane Fly

Crane fly (Joseph Berger, Bugwood.org)

Identification

  • resemble very large mosquitoes
  • thin, elongate body and extremely long legs
  • do not have biting mouthparts

Nesting Habits

  • breed in moist areas with abundant vegetation
  • some breed in turfgrass

Diet

  • larvae feed on roots, grasses and other organic matter

Significance

  • occasionally enter buildings when a door or window is left open
  • cannot survive indoors for long

IPM Recommendations

  • Control is typically not necessary.
  • Install properly-fitting screens on all windows. 
  • Keep doors and windows closed or open with properly fitted screens.

Additional Resources

IPM for Flies: Integrated Pest Management in Sensitive Environments (University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension)