We’re getting a lot of inquiries about mayflies that have recently started swarming in North Texas.You might worry these enormous mosquito-like insects are something sinister. Good news—they’re actually crane flies, a completely normal springtime visitor.
You’ve probably heard them called mayflies, mosquito hawks, skeeter eaters, or my personal favorite, “mosquitoes on steroids.” But these inch-long, gangly-legged insects that sneak into your home and bounce off walls and ceilings are simply crane flies—and they’re entirely harmless, despite internet myths about biting or stinging.
What’s fascinating about adult crane flies is their minimal appetite. According to experts, some merely sponge up liquids like dew or honey water, while others visit flowers for nectar. Their limited diet makes sense considering their brief lifespan—adult crane flies only live for a few days!
Before their brief adult stage, crane flies spend most of their existence as larvae, living in streams, pond edges, wet logs, or other damp environments. They emerge as adults solely for a quick mating period before completing their life cycle.
A couple of extra strange and interesting facts about these spring time visitors.
- They are one of the oldest insect groups, with fossils dating back over 300 million years.
- They have a short life span, only living for a few hours to a few days.
- Adult mayflies don’t have functional mouthparts and don’t eat; their sole purpose is to reproduce.
From keeping your lawn healthy to protecting your home from pests and enjoying a mosquito-free backyard, Village Green delivers comprehensive care for your outdoor spaces.
Questions? We’re here to help. Call or Text us at 972-495-6990.
