The term “daddy long legs” often causes confusion, as it is commonly used to describe multiple distinct creatures with long, slender appendages. This widespread misunderstanding arises because people apply the same informal name to different organisms. Clarifying these distinctions helps in accurately identifying the creatures found in and around homes.
Unpacking the “Daddy Long Legs” Name
The familiar “daddy long legs” moniker refers to three primary, yet biologically distinct, groups of creatures. One common recipient is the cellar spider, belonging to the family Pholcidae. These true spiders are often found indoors, characterized by their small bodies and exceptionally long, thin legs. They are frequently seen hanging upside down in their loose, irregular webs in corners of rooms.
Another creature known as a daddy long legs is the harvestman, an arachnid belonging to the order Opiliones. Unlike spiders, harvestmen are not true spiders, despite their eight legs. They are typically found outdoors in moist, shady environments.
The third creature sharing this common name is the crane fly, an insect from the family Tipulidae. These flies superficially resemble large mosquitoes due to their long legs and slender bodies. Crane flies are frequently encountered near damp areas or attracted to lights, sometimes entering homes.
Key Differences for Identification
Distinguishing between these three “daddy long legs” requires observing their anatomical features and behaviors. Cellar spiders, as true spiders, possess two distinct body segments: a cephalothorax (fused head and thorax) and an abdomen. They typically have eight eyes. These spiders are also known for constructing messy, non-sticky webs where they often hang. When disturbed, they may rapidly vibrate their web, creating a blurring effect.
In contrast, harvestmen have a body that appears as a single, fused, oval-shaped segment. They possess only two eyes. Unlike spiders, harvestmen do not produce silk or spin webs, and they lack venom glands. Their second pair of legs is often notably longer and used as sensory feelers.
Crane flies, being insects, have three distinct body sections: a head, thorax, and abdomen. They possess large compound eyes and a pair of antennae. A defining characteristic of crane flies is their single pair of functional wings. Their flight is often described as weak and wavering.
Debunking Common Misconceptions
Many myths surround creatures known as “daddy long legs,” particularly concerning their potential danger to humans. Cellar spiders, while possessing venom like most spiders, have venom that is not considered potent or medically significant to humans. Their fangs are quite short, making it difficult for them to penetrate human skin effectively. The urban legend that cellar spiders have highly potent venom but fangs too small to bite humans is unsubstantiated.
Harvestmen are entirely harmless to humans, as they do not produce venom. They lack the fangs and venom glands found in true spiders. The myth of harvestmen being the most venomous animal but unable to bite is false; their mouthparts are designed for tearing food, not injecting venom.
Crane flies are also completely harmless to people. They do not bite or sting, and they are not known to transmit diseases. Despite their mosquito-like appearance, adult crane flies do not feed on blood or prey on mosquitoes. Their primary role as adults is reproduction.