The term “mosquito hawk” frequently causes confusion, as it is widely used to describe various insects. This common name often leads to the mistaken belief that the insects it refers to are significant predators of mosquitoes. This article aims to distinguish these insects and reveal what they genuinely consume, clarifying these prevalent misconceptions.
Unmasking the “Mosquito Hawk”
The popular term “mosquito hawk” is broadly applied to several insects, leading to widespread misidentification. Most commonly, it refers to crane flies, often mistaken for oversized mosquitoes due to their long legs and slender bodies. Crane flies typically range from 15 mm to 25 mm in length, excluding their legs, and have two narrow wings.
Other insects sometimes called “mosquito hawks” include robber flies, known for their predatory nature. These flies often have a humpbacked appearance, spiny legs, and a bearded face. Robber flies vary greatly in size, with some species mimicking bees or wasps.
Dragonflies and damselflies are also included under this umbrella term. Dragonflies are generally more robust, with larger bodies and eyes that often touch at the top of their heads. Damselflies are more slender, with delicate bodies and eyes that are clearly separated. Dragonflies usually hold their wings flat and perpendicular to their bodies when at rest, while most damselflies fold their wings together over their backs.
The Diet of Crane Flies
Crane flies, despite often being called “mosquito hawks,” do not prey on mosquitoes. Adult crane flies generally have very short lifespans, often lasting only a few days, and their primary purpose is reproduction. Many adult species do not feed, or consume nectar, dew, or decaying plant matter. Their mouthparts are not designed for biting or consuming other insects, making them anatomically incapable of preying on mosquitoes.
Crane fly larvae, often called “leatherjackets” due to their tough skin, have a different diet. These larvae primarily feed on decaying organic matter, plant roots, and turf. They are found in moist soil or aquatic environments, where they contribute to the decomposition process. While some rare species may consume small aquatic invertebrates, including mosquito larvae, this is not a widespread behavior that justifies the “mosquito hawk” nickname for the group.
Other Mosquito Predators Sometimes Called “Mosquito Hawks”
Unlike crane flies, other insects sometimes called “mosquito hawks” are effective mosquito predators. Robber flies are aggressive aerial hunters that ambush prey. They feed on a broad spectrum of insects, including mosquitoes, other flies, bees, beetles, and wasps. Their larvae also contribute to pest control by preying on other insect larvae in soil or decaying wood.
Dragonflies are highly skilled aerial predators with voracious appetites. Adult dragonflies actively hunt and consume large numbers of flying insects, including mosquitoes, midges, gnats, flies, butterflies, moths, and even smaller dragonflies. Some adults can consume over 100 mosquitoes per day. Dragonfly nymphs, which live underwater, are also formidable predators, feeding on mosquito larvae, other aquatic insect larvae, tadpoles, and small fish.
Damselflies, closely related to dragonflies, also contribute to mosquito control. Adult damselflies primarily prey on smaller flying insects like mosquitoes, midges, and small crustaceans. Their aquatic nymphs consume mosquito larvae and other small aquatic invertebrates.
Ecological Role
The insects commonly associated with the “mosquito hawk” moniker play distinct roles within ecosystems. Crane fly larvae are important decomposers, breaking down organic matter in soil and aquatic environments, which helps enrich the soil and recycle nutrients. Both adult and larval crane flies also serve as a food source for various animals, including birds, spiders, fish, and other predatory insects.
Robber flies, dragonflies, and damselflies are significant biological control agents. Robber flies help regulate insect populations by preying on a wide range of species. Dragonflies and damselflies, both in their aquatic larval stages and as flying adults, are effective natural predators of mosquitoes and other nuisance insects. Their presence contributes to maintaining ecological balance by controlling pest populations.