Have you noticed an influx of daddy long legs in your homes recently? If so, you’re not the only one!
Social media has been flooded with reports of the creepy crawlies turning up “everywhere”. One TikTok user reported seeing “swarms” around their property. Meanwhile, another person confessed to having about 20 inside her house within a week.
So what are daddy long legs and how can you get rid of them? In the UK, the term “daddy long legs” typically refers to two different types of creatures:
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Crane Flies: These are insects that resemble oversized mosquitoes, with very long legs and a slender body. They belong to the family Tipulidae. Despite their mosquito-like appearance, crane flies do not bite or sting humans. They are often seen during late summer and early autumn, particularly around grassy areas.
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Harvestmen: These are arachnids related to spiders, belonging to the order Opiliones. Harvestmen have a small, compact body and extremely long legs, which is why they are sometimes colloquially referred to as daddy long legs. Unlike true spiders, harvestmen have a single, fused body segment rather than two distinct segments, and they do not produce silk or spin webs.
Thankfully, the bugs are harmless. But as they’re a bit annoying, and can scare some, there are methods you can use to deter them. Sophie Thorogood, a pest prevention specialist at Pest-Stop, shared her top pieces of advice. They are…
Dim the lights
Since crane flies are attracted to light, reducing outdoor lighting at night or using yellow “bug” lights can help minimise their presence around your home.
It can also be as easy as keeping windows, doors and curtains closed when it’s bright inside.
Keep an eye on moisture levels
Like most insects, daddy long legs are attracted to moist environments, so reducing humidity in your home can make it less inviting to a variety of pests. It’s recommended to use a dehumidifier in damp areas like bathrooms and basements and ensure good airflow in enclosed spaces such as attics and lofts.
Promptly fix any leaks and maintain dry windowsills and basements.
Seal entry points
Check for and seal any gaps or cracks in doors, windows, and walls where daddy long legs might enter.
You may also want to ensure that your windows and doors have tight-fitting screens to prevent the bugs from entering your home.
Tidy up the garden
Keep your lawn trimmed and remove any decaying plant matter, as crane flies lay their eggs in moist soil and grass.
Their larvae, commonly known as leather jackets, can harm lawns and plants by consuming the root system. There are solutions available that specifically target the larvae, such as nematodes – tiny worms that parasitise the daddy long legs larvae. By dealing with the larvae, you’ll also reduce the number of adults.
Use careful removal tactics
There’s no need to kill the insects! Simply usher them out of a window or use a glass to catch them in. You can then release them outdoors without causing any harm.