Crane flies, often called “Mosquito Hawks” or “Skeeter Eaters,” do not actually eat mosquitoes, according to UC Davis Distinguished Professor Emerita Lynn Kimsey in a statement released on Mar. 27. Kimsey said that adult crane flies generally do not eat at all and spend their brief lives searching for mates and laying eggs.
The topic is important because many people mistakenly believe these insects help control mosquito populations. Understanding the real behavior of crane flies can improve public knowledge about local ecosystems and dispel myths about common garden insects.
Kimsey explained, “They do not eat mosquitoes. In fact, adult crane flies generally don’t eat at all. Their entire brief adult lives are spent searching for mates and laying eggs.” She added that adults typically live only a few days, with some living even less if caught by predators such as spiders.
Crane fly larvae, known as leatherjackets, usually feed on decaying plant matter but may also consume living plants, fungi, or invertebrates. Scientists have described more than 15,500 species of crane flies across over 500 genera worldwide. The late taxonomist Charles Paul Alexander was noted for describing nearly one new species per day throughout his career.
University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources (UC ANR) secures funding through public contributions to support its programs according to the official website. UC ANR promotes sustainable practices to strengthen resilient ecosystems and economic vitality according to the official website. The organization utilizes nine research and extension centers representing California’s diverse ecosystems according to the official website, manages Cooperative Extension services as part of the University of California system according to the official website, conducts tens of thousands of educational events annually with over 18,000 volunteers according to the official website, and is recognized for linking research directly with community needs according to the official website.
UC Agriculture and Natural Resources extends university research statewide through educational programs in all 58 counties while promoting sustainability in agriculture and natural resources. It delivers science-based information via workshops and partnerships while mobilizing volunteers and research centers across California according to the official website.
Understanding facts about local insects like crane flies helps communities better appreciate ecosystem roles beyond misconceptions.