Flies
Crane Fly Identification and Property Tips
| Apr 20, 2022
Long-legged crane fly with outstretched wings resting on green leaves.
Crane flies can resemble oversized mosquitoes, but they do not bite people. An occasional adult usually does not call for pest treatment.
Identification and habits
Adults have slender bodies and very long legs. The nickname “mosquito eater” is misleading: adult crane flies are not a mosquito-control solution. Species differ, so seeing adults does not diagnose the cause of lawn damage.
What to do at your property
Let an occasional indoor adult outside and check screens if entries repeat. If the concern is damaged turf, seek identification of the actual cause before choosing a lawn treatment. A photograph can help distinguish a crane fly from a mosquito.
Photograph the pest clearly and note where and when it appeared. Ask Plank about identification and whether inspection, prevention or selected treatment is appropriate. The service scope and any follow-up are confirmed for your property.
Reference: Missouri Department of Conservation: Large crane flies.
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