Cranefly - ID confirm & questions....

Red Robin · #1 (**permalink**) 29-04-2011, 06:05 PM

....I'm fairly confident this is a Spotted Crane-fly. Would someone please confirm this, please? Seen and photographed on the water surface of my small wildlife (no fish) pond in far west of coastal Dorset.

I'm assuming that it was taking a drink or even there on water without intending to be. It didn't appear to be in any difficulties. I didn't witness it arrive or leave as I was interrupted by a visiting friend.

Male or female?

Why do you think it was on the water? Is this usual?

Thanks

Kayleigh · #2 (**permalink**) 30-04-2011, 10:51 PM

I thought it was a pond skater..
Not sure what one though.

Jason Green · #3 (**permalink**) 01-05-2011, 12:00 AM

Morning RR,

I've not personally heard of the Spotted Crane-fly term being used for these. I think the name Tiger Crane-fly is in wider circulation for Tipulids from the Nephrotoma genus, to which this belongs. You may not get further than that from this one photograph.

Take care,

Jason

Red Robin · #4 (**permalink**) 01-05-2011, 07:49 PM

Nephrotoma appendiculata or quadrifaria = Spotted Crane-fly according to Michael Chinery's insects guidebook and illustrations.

I may only have the one photo but it shows the markings quite clearly. I wasn't going to disturb the insect just to ID it.