BUTTERFLIES AND MOTHS

Crane Flies, Tipula spp.

Order: Diptera (Flies)

Size: Up to 1"

Habitat: Varied habitats, usually near water or moist soils; gardens, fields, indoors

Range: Throughout North America

Crane flies appear like giant mosquitoes, but are completely harmless. Many species inhabit North America, all of which have extremely long, thin legs (easily broken off); a long, thin abdomen; a broad thorax; long antennae; and one pair of thin wings. In place of rear wings, there is a pair of small projections that aid in balance. The color is drab gray or brownish. Females are sometimes wingless and have a thin, egg-laying projection (the ovipositor) at the rear (this is not a stinger, as some might fear). The larvae are grub-like with a tough, leathery skin, and feed on decaying plant matter and fungi, although some are pests of garden and crop plants. Adults rarely feed and commonly come indoors, where they lazily cling to curtains or window sidings.