how to prevent crane flies

Crane flies are insects that can be found in many parts of the world. They are often mistaken for mosquitoes, but they do not bite. However, they can be a nuisance because they are attracted to light and can end up flying into your home. Additionally, crane fly larvae can cause damage to your lawn and garden. In this article, we will discuss how to prevent crane flies from becoming a problem.

Identifying crane flies

Crane flies can be identified by their long, thin legs and wings that stick out from their bodies. They are usually gray or brown in color and can grow up to two inches in length. Although they do not bite, they can be a nuisance when they swarm around exterior lights at night. Additionally, crane fly larvae can cause damage to your lawn and garden by feeding on the roots of plants. If you notice these insects in or around your home, it is important to take action to prevent a larger infestation.

Prevention methods

The best way to prevent crane flies from becoming a problem is to make your home and yard less attractive to them. Here are a few tips to help keep crane flies at bay:1. Turn off exterior lights at night. Since crane flies are attracted to light, turning off the lights outside of your home can reduce the number of these insects that swarm around your property.2. Keep your lawn well-maintained. Crane fly larvae thrive in damp soil, so keeping your lawn dry can help prevent them from nesting in your yard. Make sure that your lawn is properly irrigated and that any standing water is drained.3. Use insecticides. There are a variety of insecticides that can be used to kill crane flies. You can spray insecticide on your lawn, around the perimeter of your home, and on exterior lights to help control these pests.

Controlling crane flies

If you already have a crane fly infestation, there are steps you can take to control it. Here are a few methods of controlling crane flies:1. Use insecticide. As mentioned earlier, insecticide can be an effective way to kill crane flies. Make sure that you follow the instructions on the label carefully to avoid any potential harm to people, pets, or plants.2. Use nematodes. Nematodes are small worms that can be used to kill crane fly larvae in your lawn. You can purchase nematodes from your local garden store and apply them to your lawn according to the instructions on the label.

Conclusion

Crane flies can be a nuisance when they are attracted to lights, and their larvae can cause damage to your lawn and garden. However, with some preventative measures, you can keep these insects under control. Make sure that you keep your lawn well-maintained and turn off exterior lights at night to make your home less attractive to crane flies. If you already have an infestation, insecticide and nematodes can be used to control these pests. By taking proactive steps, you can prevent crane flies from becoming a problem in your home or garden.