Tipula paludosa
We will see a lot more of these large flies as autumn fast approaches. I found this one resting on my patio door early this morning, catching the warm dawn sunshine. Collectively, craneflies are called Daddy Long-legs or Flying Daddy Long-legs, and although some of them appear to have a stinger, which is in fact the ovipositor of the female, they are harmless. The legs are very fragile and easily fall off if handled, which maybe an escape mechanism to evade capture.
The larvae are commonly called Leatherjackets, and they live just below the surface of the soil feeding on the roots of grasses, and can become a pest where crops are grown.
It can be seen June to October, and is found in fields, parks and gardens. It is common and widespread throughout.
Photograph of European Crane Fly (Tipula paludosa), taken September 2016, rear garden, Staffordshire. Ā© Pete Hillman 2016. Camera used Nikon D7200, with Sigma 105mm macro lens.
This is extraordinary! The mosquito itself and then its shadow. Superb!
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Thank you for your lovely comment š This is quite a large species of fly and it is quite harmless and does not draw blood or sting in any fashion. Although they can be quite intimidating when they fly through your window at night being attracted to light.
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I’m so glad we don’t see flies like that round our way! š Lovely capture nonetheless!!
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I agree and the colour of his body matching the background! Great job Pete.
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Thank you š This was one of those lucky encounters I could not resist grabbing my camera and taking a few shots.
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A striking image, both accurate and abstract at the same time!
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Thank you, Judith š
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Macro is amazing! But macro of insects is like a whole other alien world! Bravo on this shot. I don’t have the nerves to get good macros of insects. I use my 28-300 zoom lens hahaha
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Thank you, Jake š Yes, up close the insect world is like an alien world.
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Kudos on being so brave!!
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Such an awesome capture! The blue shadow in the back compliment the blue in the fly and it makes a very pleasing photo to look at.
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Thank you very much, Inger š I appreciate your comment. I took this early morning just as the sun showed its head over the horizon.
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I’m not sure what I love most about this image, the insect , or the shadows, but love it I do!
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Thank you very much, Laura š
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