how to get rid of crane flies
Mia Russell
Updated on July 28, 2026
It’s all to do with the crane fly’s short lifespan and their desperation to mate before their time is up. The flies only live for 10 to 15 days, and are constantly looking for a partner, and though they like to venture indoors for warmth, they actually lay their eggs outside.
Why are crane flies around?
The larvae grow fastest under moist soil conditions with good food resources, so they’ve developed quickly in our urban soils and are now transforming into adult crane flies and taking to the skies around town. In dry years, such as 2018, crane fly larvae will simply stay dormant in the soil and wait for better times.
Should I be scared of crane flies?
These are large insects that closely resemble mosquitoes. They can be very scary looking, particularly if they find their way into your home and start flying around terrorizing everyone. Are they dangerous? No, crane flies are completely harmless.
What are crane flies attracted to?
Like many flying insects, Crane flies are attracted to light. At night they will be drawn towards porch lights and interior lights when doors or windows are left open. If your exterior lights are very white and bright they are more attractive to flying insects.
Can a crane fly hurt you?
Once again, crane flies can’t hurt you. They’re ungainly, but they’re harmless.
Why are there so many crane flies 2020?
How did I get crane flies? In the fall and spring, lawns near wooded areas or open fields often have a population of crane flies. In their mature form, the adult females lay eggs in grass. Dampness and heavy rainfall increase their numbers.
Why are there so many flies in my house 2021?
Because flies are attracted to heat, light, garbage and waste, any trash cans or open areas with decomposing or exposed food will invite them. Even spills of liquids and standing water are enough to bring these unwanted guests. Simply put, cleaning up and taking out the trash makes a difference.
Do crane flies really eat mosquitoes?
Crane flies don’t bite, and they don’t eat mosquitos. In fact, the adults don’t eat at all, but they do live in damp areas and certainly resemble a huge long-legged mosquito. In their immature stage, they are slim brownish larvae and feed on dead plant material.
Do crane flies bite dogs?
Crane flies can have very long legs and might look scary to some, but they do not bite.
Do crane flies drown?
In addition, crane fly larvae are very susceptible to drowning, so a thorough and prolonged watering of a lawn should significantly reduce their numbers.
Where do crane flies hide in the house?
Most of the time, adult crane flies just wander. They are often found bumping into walls, people, structures, and windows.
What is the best crane fly killer?
Commercial insecticides like imidacloprid or pyrethroid are effective against crane flies. These insecticides can come in liquid or granular form. They cause paralysis and kill the larvae in the lawn. It’s recommended to apply insecticides in early to mid-April, right after the eggs hatch.
Do bug zappers work on crane flies?
1. Installing Bug Zapper. Insects, which include crane flies, are attracted by the light in the bug zapper and get electrocuted. Install it at a heightened spot in your garden, and it’ll keep the crane flies in check.