Tipula vernalis

Introduction:

The Spring Crane Fly (Tipula vernalis) is a striking representative of the family Tipulidae, easily recognized by its bright emerald-green eyes and a bold dark stripe running down the center of its abdomen. Emerging in early spring, these harmless, long-legged flies play a crucial role in temperate terrestrial ecosystems as detritivores and food for wildlife.
Life Cycle: Larvae develop in damp soil, leaf litter, and grass roots, feeding on organic material before pupating to emerge as adults in early spring.

Size 0.5 to 0.7 in (1.2 to 1.7 cm)
Sexual Dimorphism: Females feature a pointed ovipositor at the tip of the abdomen used for laying eggs in soil, whereas males possess a blunted, expanded abdomen with claspers for mating.
Metamorphosis: complete (egg, larva, pupa, adult)