how to get rid of mosquito hawk

2 min read 06-02-2025

Mosquito hawks, also known as crane flies, are often mistaken for giant mosquitoes. While their size can be alarming, they're actually harmless to humans and even beneficial to the environment. This article will explore why you might see them, and how to deter them if their presence bothers you, but we'll also explain why eradication isn't usually necessary.

Understanding Mosquito Hawks (Crane Flies)

What are they? Crane flies are large, delicate insects with long legs and slender bodies. They're often found near water sources and damp areas. Unlike mosquitoes, adult crane flies don't bite or feed on blood. Their short lifespan primarily involves mating and laying eggs.

Why are they in my house/yard? Adult crane flies are attracted to light, making homes and yards with bright exterior lighting a prime target. They also seek out moist environments to lay their eggs. Overwatering your lawn or having standing water can attract them. Their larval stage lives in soil, and they emerge as adults.

Are they harmful? No, adult crane flies pose no threat to humans or pets. Their larvae, while living in the soil, can sometimes damage plant roots, but this is rarely a significant issue. The benefits of their presence often outweigh any potential damage.

How to Deter Crane Flies

While you don't need to eradicate them, you can take steps to reduce their presence if it's bothering you:

1. Eliminate Breeding Grounds

Reduce moisture: Fix leaky pipes, faucets, and drainage issues. Ensure proper drainage around your home and yard to eliminate standing water.
Maintain your lawn: Avoid overwatering. Proper lawn care can reduce the number of larvae that thrive in the soil.

2. Control Lighting

Reduce outdoor lighting: Crane flies are attracted to light. Using less outdoor lighting, or switching to lower-wattage bulbs or yellow-toned lights, can help.
Shield lights: Direct lights downwards to prevent insects from being drawn to them.

3. Physical Removal

Vacuuming: If you find crane flies inside, a vacuum cleaner is an effective way to remove them.
Sweep: Use a broom to sweep them outdoors.

4. Natural Repellents

Essential oils: Some anecdotal evidence suggests that certain essential oils, such as citronella or lemongrass, might deter crane flies. However, scientific evidence is limited.
Diatomaceous earth: While primarily effective against crawling insects, some people use it around the foundation of their home.

Why You Shouldn't Try to Eliminate Crane Flies Completely

Crane flies play a crucial role in the ecosystem. Their larvae are a food source for other animals, and the adults contribute to the food web in their own way. Removing them entirely could disrupt the balance of nature. Focus on deterrents, not extermination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do mosquito hawks bite? No, adult crane flies do not bite.

Q: Are mosquito hawks dangerous to pets? No, they are not harmful to pets.

Q: How long do mosquito hawks live? Their lifespan as adults is relatively short, typically only a few days to a few weeks.

Q: What do mosquito hawk larvae eat? Crane fly larvae feed on decaying organic matter in the soil, sometimes consuming plant roots in the process.

By understanding crane flies and employing simple deterrents, you can minimize their presence without harming these beneficial insects. Remember, their existence usually poses no significant threat to you, your family, or your property.