There is a common misconception about the insects that we call “mosquito hawks.” The picture above captures a long-legged fly that is all too often mistaken as a mosquito killer—the adult crane fly. As opposed what could be considered “true” mosquito hawks—like a dragonfly—the crane fly has been caught in a case of mistaken identity.

It is ironic that the crane fly (eponymously named after the long-legged and slow flying crane) has been misconceived as a mosquito hunter when the insect itself doesn’t eat much of anything. Crane flies are anatomically incapable of killing or eating mosquitoes. These large, spindly creatures bounce off walls and ceilings while just going about their way.

Crane flies, much like moths, are attracted to light. They oftentimes hover near porch lights and windows, unintentionally invading homes as they maneuver their way towards lights. Though they do appear as enormous mosquitoes, crane flies are not blood suckers either. Rather, they feed on the roots of grasses.

So, what is the big deal then? Why do crane flies matter in the grand scheme of things? Though they might not be getting rid of the buzzing nuisance that the Mosquito Enemy team is here to help you with, crane flies do play an important role in the environment. The larvae of the crane fly decompose organic waste lying around on the bottom of streams and forest floors—they thus help enrich soil and enhance the habitats of other creatures. Crane flies are also make a quick meal for animals like birds, reptiles, amphibians, other insects, and fish.

Though they might not be the mosquito eaters we’ve built them up to be, the crane fly plays an interesting part in the myths surrounding mosquitoes!