How to Draw a Cranefly

In this quick tutorial you’ll learn how to draw a Cranefly in just a few quick steps, but first…

Interesting Facts about the Cranefly

Craneflies are very common and widespread, and they can be found in Europe and North America. Craneflies look like large mosquitoes with very long legs, but they do not bite humans. They have a slender, brown body and large grey wings. Cranflies are attracted to light and may swarm around a bright light at night. They may fly into human houses due to their fascination with light.

Did you know?

Cranefly larvae have a tough, leathery outer layer.
They earned the name cranefly due to their long legs being reminiscent of cranes which are long-legged birds.
Adult cranflies don’t eat. Their main purpose is to mate and lay eggs.
The larvae feed on roots, stems, and leaves. They can cause damage to lawns, crops, and pastures.
Craneflies have many predators including skunks, moles, bats, and birds.
Cranefly eggs are laid in the soil.

Lesson plan note: Give each child a piece of green construction paper. Give the children markers, colored pencils, or crayons. Have them draw a yard with cranefly larvae in the soil and adult craneflies flying through the air. Write the child’s name on the back of their picture. After everyone is finished, have the children share their pictures with the rest of the class.