Not a mosquito

Many refer to this insect as a mosquito and some here in New Jersey refer to it as a Jersey Mosquito. In my opinion New Jersey doesn't need anymore mosquitos than we have now. Sometimes we are referred to as the mosquito state which isn't something to be proud of. This in fact is a crane fly. It only lives for a day and is not a stinging insect, being virtually harmless.

It is possible that I used one of these flies last year but don't want to go check. :-)

[Karen Mitchell]

Over here in the UK we call them Daddy Long Legs :)

[Della]

ewwwwww but a great shot! :)

[bruni]

God created this beauty just to live for a day...you wonder what is its purpose. we also know them as daddy long legs.

[Peggy Sirk]

We call these mosquito hawks. I always thought they ate mosquitos...but apparently crane flies don't eat anything.

[Holly Daly]

I always called them "Mosquito Hawks" (and am happy to find that Wikipedia referenced it - I didn't just make it up! ;) I can't tell you how many times I have to reinforce with the boys that they are harmless as they run screaming... Nice shot..

[Holly Daly]

And I just saw Peggy's reply come up and I have to admit I thought they ate mosquitos too! :)

[Lauren]

and how did you learn that little fact?? :)