Crane Fly vs Bristly Tachinid Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Crane Fly | Bristly Tachinid Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Tipula paludosa | Nowickia ferox |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Tipulidae | Tachinidae |
| Size | 15-25 mm | 12-16 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Underground |
| Diet | Root Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, North America, Asia | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Crane Fly
Often mistaken for giant mosquitoes but completely harmless. Adults often do not feed at all. Larvae (leatherjackets) live in soil and can be lawn pests.
Did You Know?
Despite looking terrifying, crane flies are completely harmless — they cannot bite or sting. Most adults live just a few days and many never eat at all.
Bristly Tachinid Fly
A large, heavily bristled tachinid fly with a gray-checkered pattern on the abdomen. It is conspicuously spiny and frequently visits flowers in late summer.
Did You Know?
Its exceptionally long and stiff bristles are thought to help prevent birds from swallowing it.