What are these insects? - Ask Extension
Saw these bugs on my window screen today. Wonder if they are an invasive species or some new kind of mosquito.
Knowledgebase
What are these insects? #867777
Asked May 09, 2024, 3:29 PM EDT
Saw these bugs on my window screen today. Wonder if they are an invasive species or some new kind of mosquito.
Baltimore County Maryland
Expert Response
These are neither invasive nor mosquitoes, fortunately -- they are a type of crane fly. Maryland is home to over 20 species of crane fly, and the one you photographed appears to be the aptly-named Giant Crane Fly. You can view photos for comparison on the linked pages.
Crane fly adults either do not feed at all or may visit flowers for nectar, and their larvae feed on plant matter (but are not pests...most of what they feed on is already dead and decaying). Like many night-flying insects, the adults can be attracted light at night, such as from porch lights or lamps close to a window. If the flies or other insects coming to an outdoor light are bothersome, keep it turned off or try switching to a yellower-colored bulb, as fewer insects will be drawn to that color.
Miri
Crane fly adults either do not feed at all or may visit flowers for nectar, and their larvae feed on plant matter (but are not pests...most of what they feed on is already dead and decaying). Like many night-flying insects, the adults can be attracted light at night, such as from porch lights or lamps close to a window. If the flies or other insects coming to an outdoor light are bothersome, keep it turned off or try switching to a yellower-colored bulb, as fewer insects will be drawn to that color.
Miri
