Crane Fly (Giant)

About the Crane Fly (Giant)

The largest crane flies can have a 6 cm body with 10 cm leg span. Despite their mosquito-like appearance, they cannot bite or sting. Their larvae are important decomposers in soil and aquatic ecosystems. Some larvae can grow to 5 cm. Over 15,000 species exist. They are among the most abundant insects in temperate regions. They are attracted to lights in enormous numbers. Their long legs break off easily as a defense mechanism. They are important food for birds and bats. In some countries they are called daddy longlegs. They have been around for 200 million years.