Description

Over all length 22 - 26mm. A large species with a pale body colour and only slightly darker markings on the thorax and a dark stripe along its dorsal surface. The front margin of the wing is dark and there is one long darkened vein.

Habitat

Damp grassland, in lawns, pastures and field margins.

Status and distribution

Common throughout the British Isles. This is probably our commonest cranefly and the larvae, known as 'leatherjackets' can be an agricultural pest. Very common on the reserve.

Best time to see

April to October. Commonest in early summer.