© 2026 Rentokil Initial plc and subject to the conditions in the legal statement.
Fly Control for Commercial Premises
What are crane flies?
Crane flies are long-legged insects that look like giant mosquitoes, but they don’t bite or sting.
They belong to the Tipulidae family and are often seen in gardens, fields, and near water.
Key characteristics
Crane flies have distinct features that make them easy to recognize:
- Long, thin legs: Their legs are delicate and can break off easily.
- Slender bodies: They have narrow, mosquito-like bodies but are much larger.
- Two wings: Unlike some flying insects, crane flies have just one pair of wings.
- Clumsy flight: Adults often appear wobbly or unsteady when flying.
- Attracted to lights: Adults are commonly seen near porch lights and windows at night.
Appearance
- Adult – 1" 3/8 long (wingspan 2" 15/16). They are grey-brown and slender. Their legs are super–thin and long.
- Larvae – 9/16"–2" 15/16. They are worm-like and grey, brown, or cream–colored.
The life cycle of crane flies
Crane flies go through four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Adult crane flies live only a few days. They hatch after about six weeks, and the larvae live in the water or in moist soil for up to five years, depending on the species. In the spring, the larvae pupate and emerge as adults.
Seasonal behaviors of crane flies
Crane flies are most active in the spring and fall. In the spring, crane fly larvae live in the soil and feed on grass roots and dead plants. By late summer or early fall, many adult crane flies appear. At night, they are drawn to lights and often gather around porches, windows, and street lamps.
Habitat and diet of crane flies
Crane flies live in places with plenty of moisture, which helps their larvae grow and survive. Their habitat and diet change as they move through different life stages.
- Larvae (also known as leatherjackets) live in the soil and feed on grass roots and dead plants.
- Adults do not eat much, if at all, and live only a few days. Before they die, they focus on mating and laying eggs.
Where do crane flies live? Common habitats
Crane fly larvae need damp soil to develop, so they are usually found in areas with a lot of moisture. They thrive in:
- Lawns and gardens: Many homeowners notice damage from crane fly larvae in their grass, especially in shady or overwatered areas.
- Fields and pastures: Farmers and ranchers sometimes struggle with crane fly larvae eating plant roots, which can weaken crops and grasses.
- Near lakes, ponds, and rivers: Since crane flies like moisture, their larvae are often found in wetlands or muddy areas near water.
Habits and Behavior of Crane Flies
Crane flies are often mistaken for mosquitoes because of their long legs and slender bodies. People often mistake them for giant mosquitoes, and although they may seem alarming, as adults, they don't feed, bite, or sting.
Adult crane flies are weak fliers and often appear clumsy in the air. They are attracted to lights at night, which is why you might see them gathered around porch lights or windows. Since they only live for a few days, they’re focused on reproducing to make more larvae before they die.
Crane fly larvae are known to damage lawns. They consume roots (such as garden lawns) and other vegetation. The males are mainly pollen and nectar feeders.
Managing and preventing crane fly infestations
Crane fly larvae can cause a lot of damage to your lawn by feeding on the roots of your grass. Over time, this can lead to brown spots, thinning grass, and even areas where nothing will grow.
The good news is that with the right steps, you can manage and prevent these infestations from causing lasting harm to your lawn. Visit our fly control page for more information.
Signs of an infestation
Look out for these signs to spot a crane fly infestation early:
- Brown or dead patches of grass: These appear when larvae feed on grass roots, weakening the grass.
- Spongy or soft grass: The lawn may feel soft when walked on because the roots are damaged.
- Adult crane flies: You might see adult crane flies flying around porch lights or windows at night, which often means larvae are in the soil.
How to get rid of crane flies
The best way to get rid of crane flies is with professional pest control. Crane fly larvae live in the soil, feeding on grass roots, which can make lawns turn brown and weak. If not treated properly, they can keep coming back year after year.
Our fly control experts at Presto-X can inspect your lawn, find the problem areas, and use the right treatments to get rid of the larvae. Our solutions help stop the damage and prevent future infestations. If you have a fly problem, contact Presto-X for fast, professional solutions.
Frequently asked questions
No, crane flies are harmless to people. They do not bite, sting, or spread diseases. Although they look like giant mosquitoes, they do not feed on blood.
No, crane flies do not repel or keep mosquitoes away. They do not eat mosquitoes or compete with them. They are often mistaken for mosquitoes because of their appearance.
Crane fly larvae, called leatherjackets, feed on grass roots, causing brown patches, thinning grass, and weak lawns. In large numbers, they can damage lawns and gardens.
Adult crane flies are attracted to lights at night, often gathering around porch lights, windows, and street lamps. They are also drawn to moist environments where they lay eggs.
Related fly species
Crane flies are just one of many types of flies that can be a nuisance. Learn more about these other common species:
A smaller version of the common house fly, often found indoors.