The Wildlife of
Croome

 
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Flies - The Phantom Crane Fly

First seen on Sunday 12th August 2018 at Croome

Phantom Craneflies are a family of craneflies, given their name because they appear to disappear when they fly into shaded areas. The latin name for this species is Ptychoptera Contaminata which is a bit of a mouthful. The Ptychoptera family name refers to their 'folded' wings which makes them appear thinner when at rest. They have dark spots on their wings which is also a good way of identifying them. What looks like a vicious sting in the tale is just the female's ovipositor. They like damp places - this one was found on some brambles near the river.