Leather Jackets and Crane Flies

Late September early October is the time when badgers and crows dig up our bank to get at the crane fly larvae. These larvae have thick skins, hence the name 'leather jacket'.

It's a bit of a mess for a few weeks, a bit like having your lawn scarified, but fresh growth soon fills in the gaps.

According to Wiki .... The adult female usually contains mature eggs as she emerges from her pupa, and often mates immediately if a male is available. Copulation takes a few minutes to hours and may be accomplished in flight. Adults have a lifespan of 10 to 15 days.

This couple chose our freshly laundered duvet cover for their love nest! It was blowing in the wind on the washing line.

The lower crane fly has lost its back left leg.