Alpine Crane Fly vs Striped Deer Fly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Alpine Crane Fly Striped Deer Fly
Scientific Name Tipula alpium Chrysops vittatus
Order Diptera Diptera
Family Tipulidae Tabanidae
Size 15-22 mm body length 8-11 mm
Habitat Grasslands Rivers & Streams
Diet Root Feeders Blood Feeders
Regions Alps, Central European mountains Eastern North America from Canada to the southern United States
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Alpine Crane Fly

A large crane fly of mountain pastures and alpine meadows. Its larvae are soil-dwelling and feed on grass roots.

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Did You Know?

Despite their fragile appearance, adults can fly in strong mountain winds.

Striped Deer Fly

A small deer fly with distinctive dark bands across its wings and bright green and gold patterned eyes. Females are persistent biters that circle the head and shoulders of hosts.

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Did You Know?

Its compound eyes display iridescent green and gold zigzag patterns that fade to dull gray shortly after the fly dies.