We will all be familiar, I am sure, with the Daddy-long-legs that is common in gardens and is attracted by the lights in houses. This is a close relative, its country cousin.
There are several species of crane fly and this one is the largest found in the United Kingdom, indeed, in western Europe. Rather than gardens it is mainly found in, or near, woodland and I photographed this one on heathland right alongside coniferous woods at Holton Lee, not far from Wareham.
I have never considered the Daddy-long-legs to be a beautiful creature but just look at the markings on those wings! It is also very well disguised as its perches on the heather to get warmth to enable it to fly. When it does fly it is something of a cumbersome effort and they do not go far in each flight and never gain much height.
There are several species of crane fly and this one is the largest found in the United Kingdom, indeed, in western Europe. Rather than gardens it is mainly found in, or near, woodland and I photographed this one on heathland right alongside coniferous woods at Holton Lee, not far from Wareham.
I have never considered the Daddy-long-legs to be a beautiful creature but just look at the markings on those wings! It is also very well disguised as its perches on the heather to get warmth to enable it to fly. When it does fly it is something of a cumbersome effort and they do not go far in each flight and never gain much height.
Comments
Post a Comment