Diptera: Tipulidae: Tipula planicornis ( Doane, 1912) (Common Crane Fly)

This is a medium-sized light brown species (body length 1/2 to 3/4 in., or 13 to 20 mm), which is seen outdoors resting with legs ourstretched on walls and window panes or hanging in vegetation. It is attracted to lights and often finds its way indoors.

Photograph by C. Hogue

Photograph by C. Hogue

The stout worm-like larvae (called "leather jacets" because of their thick dark skin) live in damp loose soil or leaf mold and feed on the roots of herbaceous plants. In the spring, when such food supplies and moisture abound, large larval populations may develop and produce swarms of adults.

© 1993 Insects of the Los Angeles Basin