GIANT MOSQUITOES INVADING?

Imagine surviving the April rain storms only to venture out into your newly green lawn and find what looks like giant mosquitoes lurking all over. This is a common problem amongst homeowners in the Virginia, Maryland, and DC area. Thankfully, we can all breathe a sigh of relief because these giant mosquito like insects are only harmless Crane Flies.

CRANE FLIES: HARMLESS, UNCOORDINATED INSECTS

There are several species of non-detrimental crane flies in the DC metro area that inhabit grassy areas. Many of the adults, including species such as Tipula ludosa and Tipula oleracea, resemble over-sized mosquitoes and are found on plant material or grass blades. These uncoordinated creatures emerge every spring and although they look menacing, there is no need to worry; crane flies do not feed on humans or plant material.