Spring is officially here, and while that means warmer weather, it also means the return of all the insects that disappeared in the winter. One of the most common insects this time of year in DFW are crane flies. Sadly for those that aren’t a fan of the fragile, leggy, and whisper-light flies, there are expected to be a lot more than usual this year.
Crane flies are often found around streams and lakes, but this time of year, they can also be found in green, suburban areas. Luckily, crane flies "among the gentlest of insects," said Texas A&M entomologist Mike Merchant. However, they can also be quite the nuisance for many, and this year warmer, damp weather is bringing even more of them to the metroplex.
“They usually show up during or right before spring break. But we all joke that if you see the crane fly, you won’t be seeing freezing temperatures again,” said Janet Hurley, an Extension Program Specialist with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. According to Dallas Culture Map, crane flies’ only purpose is to mate and make more crane flies for next spring. Sadly, that means next year could be even worse.
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