Dance Fly vs Long-Palped Crane Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Dance Fly | Long-Palped Crane Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Empis tessellata | Dicranota bimaculata |
| Order | Diptera | Diptera |
| Family | Empididae | Pediciidae |
| Size | 10-12 mm | 8-12 mm |
| Habitat | Hedgerows | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Dance Fly
A predatory fly in which males present silk-wrapped insect prey as nuptial gifts to females. Mating swarms form elaborate aerial dances over landmarks.
Did You Know?
Some males cheat by wrapping inedible items or empty silk balloons to trick females into mating.
Long-Palped Crane Fly
A short-bodied crane fly whose predatory larvae inhabit gravel beds of clean streams. Larvae are active hunters among cobble interstices.
Did You Know?
Unlike most crane fly larvae, this species is an active predator rather than a detritivore.