These AREN'T mosquitoes: Why these giant bugs thrive in fall
Calling these bugs "mosquitoes" is a common mistake, experts say.
No, they're not mosquitoes.
They're called crane flies.
But don't feel bad if you've been calling them mosquitoes: It's a common mistake, according to Andalyne Tofflemire, manager and naturalist at the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory.
Here's something to keep in mind:
They're not bloodsuckers, Tofflemire says.
Crane flies can be seen year-round because there are more than 50,000 different North American crane fly species. Some prefer the summer months, while others thrive in the early spring.
Their main purpose, according to Tofflemire, is to be part of the food chain.
"They're an important food source for small mammals, fish, and birds ... both as larva and as adults."
So the next time you see one, don't fret.
It's just hanging out.
To learn more about these skeeter lookalikes, watch the video above.
RELATED: SWATTING AT MOSQUITOES MAY ACTUALLY WORK
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Editor's note: This article was originally published in September 2020.
