Crane Flies
Family Tipulidae

Characteristics:
* Over 1500 species of crane flies exist in North America.
* Mosquito-like, with very long legs.
* Unlike mosquitoes, crane flies do not bite.
* Body length: 1-1 1/2".

Natural History:
* Habitat: Near water.
* Range: Throughout the world.

Connections!
* Crane flies were once called "father longlegs".

* Surprisingly, the harmless and quiet crane flies have sparked fear in so many people that psychiatrists have a name for their disorder: tipulophobia.