Crane Flies in Georgia
Health RiskNo Risk
Damage RiskNo Risk
NuisanceLow
How to Identify Crane Flies
Crane flies are identified by their long, slender bodies, delicate legs, and slow, awkward flight that often causes them to drift aimlessly indoors.
- Actual Size 10 to 25 mm
- Characteristics Large, slender flies with long legs and thin bodies that resemble oversized mosquitoes.
- Legs 6
- Antennae Yes
- Wings Yes, with one pair of narrow, transparent wings
What Do Crane Flies Do?
These insects develop in soil and grassy habitats outdoors and are often noticed around homes and vegetation during seasonal changes.
- Often noticed around outdoor lights, windows, and vegetation during warm, humid evenings.
- They are frequently mistaken for large mosquitoes due to their long legs and slender bodies, though they do not bite.
- Adult crane flies are weak fliers and often appear clumsy or slow when moving through the air.
- Crane fly larvae can sometimes impact turf health when present in large numbers in lawns or grassy areas.
Where Do You Find Crane Flies?
Crane flies are frequently observed hovering around lawns, gardens, and porches, sometimes slipping indoors while attracted to illumination. Other common places you’ll find crane flies include:
- Gardens and landscaped areas
- Areas with moist or damp soil
- Near outdoor lights at night
- Around porches and patios
- Near windows and exterior doors
- Shrubs, tall grass, and vegetation
- Around ponds, streams, and other moist environments
- Inside homes near light sources
- Parks and recreational fields
- Areas with heavy irrigation or overwatering
What Should I Do If I Have Crane Flies in Georgia?
Crane flies can become a recurring nuisance when they enter homes and gather around bright indoor areas. If crane flies are causing problems, the following steps are recommended:
- Turn off exterior lights at night or switch to yellow “bug lights” to reduce attraction.
- Keep doors and windows closed when possible, especially during peak activity times.
- Install or repair window and door screens to prevent entry.
- Reduce standing water and overwatered areas around the yard.
- Keep grass trimmed and outdoor vegetation well-maintained.
- Use fans indoors to disrupt flying insects and reduce their movement.
- Limit outdoor lighting near entry points like doors and windows.
- Contact a professional pest control company if crane flies are repeatedly entering your home or becoming a persistent indoor nuisance.
Top 5 FAQs About Crane Flies in Georgia
If you’re looking for answers about crane flies, review the FAQs below first. If you still need assistance, you can contact us by phone or email.
Why are crane flies in my house?
They often enter homes accidentally while flying toward lights or through open doors and windows.
What do crane flies eat?
Adult crane flies typically do not eat much, while larvae feed on decaying organic matter or plant roots in soil.
Do crane flies damage homes or structures?
No, crane flies do not cause structural damage or infest buildings.
Can crane fly larvae harm lawns?
In large numbers, larvae can feed on grass roots and sometimes cause minor lawn damage.
How do I get rid of crane flies indoors?
Vacuum them up, reduce light attraction, and use screens. Call a pest control professional if they keep coming back or become a persistent problem.
