how to catch a crane fly

Crane flies are the common insects that you can find in your house during summers. They can be a nuisance and can also cause damage to your plants. They are harmless, but they can scare you with their long legs and wings. If you want to catch a crane fly, there are ways to do so without harming them.

Picking Them Up

The easiest way to catch a crane fly is by picking it up. You can use your hands or a piece of paper. Crane flies are not fast-moving insects, and they will not fly away quickly. To catch them, place your hand or a piece of paper in front of them and gently scoop them up. Make sure to be gentle with the crane fly because they are fragile, and their legs can break easily.

Using a Vacuum Cleaner

If you are not comfortable using your hands to catch crane flies, you can use a vacuum cleaner. Attach a piece of stocking or a cloth to the end of the vacuum cleaner nozzle. Turn it on and place the nozzle near the crane fly. The suction of the vacuum cleaner will pull the crane fly into the stocking or cloth, and you can dispose of it later.

Using a Bug Zapper

A bug zapper is an effective way to catch crane flies. It works by attracting insects with its light and killing them with an electric shock. However, you need to be careful not to harm other insects such as bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination. Make sure that you use the bug zapper in a place where only crane flies are present.

Preventing Crane Flies

Prevention is better than cure. If you want to avoid the hassle of catching crane flies, you can prevent them from entering your house in the first place. Seal any cracks and gaps in your doors and windows. Keep your patio and garden free from standing water, which can attract crane flies. Use a flyscreen on your windows and doors to prevent them from coming inside.

Conclusion

Catching a crane fly is easy, and there are many ways to do so. You can use your hands, a piece of paper, a vacuum cleaner, or a bug zapper. However, prevention is always better than cure. Keep your house and garden free from standing water and seal any gaps to prevent crane flies from entering your house. By following these simple steps, you can keep your house crane fly-free and enjoy your summers without any hassle.