Daddy long legs, those gangly creatures with impossibly long legs, often evoke curiosity, especially when it comes to their flying abilities. So, Does A Daddy Long Legs Fly? The answer depends on what you actually mean by “daddy long legs.” This term is often used to refer to three distinct creatures: crane flies, harvestmen, and cellar spiders. Let’s clear up the confusion and explore the fascinating world of these often-misunderstood arthropods.
The Daddy Long Legs Dilemma: Crane Flies, Harvestmen, and Cellar Spiders
The term “daddy long legs” is a colloquialism, leading to ambiguity. To accurately answer the question of flight, we need to distinguish between the three creatures commonly associated with this name:
- Crane Flies: These are true flies belonging to the order Diptera. They have six legs, two wings, and are characterized by their long, slender bodies and delicate legs.
- Harvestmen: Also known as opilionids, these arachnids belong to the order Opiliones. They have eight legs and a single, oval-shaped body segment. Notably, they lack wings.
- Cellar Spiders: These arachnids, belonging to the order Araneae, are also known as pholcid spiders. They have eight long, thin legs and build webs in dark, damp places like cellars. They, too, lack wings.
Does a Daddy Long Legs Fly? The Answer Revealed
Now that we’ve clarified the different types of “daddy long legs,” we can definitively answer the question:
- Crane flies DO fly. They possess two wings and are often seen flitting around in gardens or near water sources. Their flight is somewhat clumsy, further contributing to their awkward reputation.
- Harvestmen and cellar spiders DO NOT fly. As arachnids, they lack wings and rely on their eight legs for locomotion.
Therefore, if the “daddy long legs” in question is a crane fly, then yes, it flies. If it’s a harvestmen or a cellar spider, then no, it doesn’t.
Crane Fly Flight: A Closer Look
Crane flies are most active during the warmer months, particularly in autumn. They are often attracted to lights and can be found near damp areas where their larvae develop. While their long legs might seem cumbersome, they are surprisingly adept at flying, albeit in a somewhat ungainly manner.
Their flight patterns often involve short, erratic bursts, and they are not particularly strong fliers. They are easily caught by predators and are a valuable food source for birds, bats, and fish, particularly trout. Anglers often mimic crane flies with artificial lures to attract these fish.
Fishing with Daddy Long Legs: An Angler’s Perspective
The crane fly’s significance extends beyond its flight capabilities. In the angling world, “daddy long legs” patterns are popular lures, particularly for trout fishing. These patterns imitate the crane fly’s distinctive profile and movement, enticing fish to strike.
Anglers often use a variety of techniques and fly patterns to mimic crane flies, including foam daddies, hoppers, and even goldhead versions for deeper waters. The effectiveness of these patterns highlights the importance of crane flies in the aquatic food chain.
Beyond Flight: Debunking Daddy Long Legs Myths
The confusion surrounding “daddy long legs” extends beyond their flying abilities. Common myths claim that they are the most venomous spiders in the world, but lack the fangs to bite humans. This is entirely false. Neither harvestmen nor cellar spiders possess venom glands. While cellar spiders can bite, their venom poses no threat to humans.
Conclusion: Setting the Record Straight
The question “does a daddy long legs fly?” has a nuanced answer. It depends on which creature you’re referring to. Crane flies, the true flies, do indeed fly. However, harvestmen and cellar spiders, the arachnids often mistakenly called daddy long legs, do not. Understanding the differences between these creatures helps dispel common misconceptions and appreciate the unique characteristics of each. Next time you encounter a “daddy long legs,” you’ll be equipped to identify it correctly and understand its true flying capabilities.
