Crane Fly

Attribution: Pekka Raukko, via Wikimedia Commons

Characteristics

Size:

Large flies up to 1-inch long; very long, thin legs

Color:

Light brown

Behavior:

Crane flies do not invade buildings but are commonly seen around buildings at night where they are attracted by lights. These flies resemble giant mosquitoes but are not a concern because they do not have biting mouthparts. Occasionally, one or two crane flies will fly into an open door and be seen inside.

Habitats

The larvae of crane flies breed in wet soil and aquatic environments. Large populations may be seen near buildings in lawns or fields where considerable rainfall has accumulated for a period of time.

Tips for Control

No control is necessary for this fly. If seen indoors, the occasional crane fly can be killed or captured and released outside. To attract fewer of these insects to a building, exterior lights should be switched to yellow “bug lite” bulbs or to low pressure sodium vapor bulbs.