With their slender body and stilt-like legs, crane flies kind of look like mosquitoes on steroids. But not to worry, they are not out for blood. Adult crane flies only live about 10 to 15 days. Their primary purpose is to mate. The females will lay eggs in suitable habitat, which depending on the species can range from water, soil, or a rotten log. In addition to finding this crane fly on one of her flowers, Kristi has had a few coming into the house lights at night too. Adults of many winged species are attracted to lights.
Size: Adult length: to about 1½ inches (varies by species).
Photos by: Kristi DuBois on 9/19/21 in Missoula, MT
