why do crane flies come inside

Have you ever been sitting in your home and suddenly noticed a large, spindly insect flying awkwardly around the room? More likely than not, that insect was a crane fly. These insects seem to appear out of nowhere, and many people wonder why they come inside. In this article, we will explore the curious habits of crane flies and how they end up in our homes.

The Basics of Crane Flies

Before we dive into why crane flies come inside, let's take a brief look at what they are and some key characteristics. Crane flies are insects that belong to the Tipulidae family. They are often mistaken for mosquitoes because of their similar size and long, thin legs. However, crane flies do not bite or feed on blood. In fact, as adults, they don't eat at all. Their sole purpose is to mate and lay eggs before they die. Crane flies have a lifespan of only a few days to a few weeks, so they have a very short window of time to complete their reproductive cycle. Their larvae, commonly known as \"leatherjackets,\" are found in soil and feed on plant roots.

Why Do Crane Flies Come Inside?

So why do these harmless creatures end up in our homes? One reason is that crane flies are attracted to light. This often leads them to fly towards windows or doors when they are lit up at night. If a window or door is left open, they can easily fly inside. Once they are inside, they may be attracted to other sources of light, such as lamps or televisions.Another reason crane flies come inside is due to changes in weather patterns. When it becomes particularly damp or cold outside, they may seek shelter indoors to escape the elements. This is especially common during the fall when temperatures start to drop.

What Should You Do if You Find Crane Flies in Your Home?

If you find crane flies in your home, the most important thing to remember is that they are harmless. They do not bite or sting and do not pose a threat to humans or pets. If you are uncomfortable with their presence, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them. First, try to seal up any cracks or gaps in your windows and doors to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. You can also use screens on your windows to minimize the risk of them flying inside. If you do find crane flies in your home, you can simply catch and release them outside.

Conclusion

In conclusion, crane flies are harmless insects that often find their way into our homes due to a variety of reasons. They are attracted to light and may seek refuge from harsh weather conditions. While they can be a bit of a nuisance, they do not pose any significant threat to humans or pets. If you do find them inside, simply catch and release them back outside where they can continue their short life cycle.