Do Mosquito Eaters Eat Mosquitoes?
Posted by Mosquito Squad Plus
June 25, 2026
No, adult crane flies, also referred to as mosquito eaters, do not, in fact eat mosquitoes.
Insects commonly called mosquito eaters actually look like oversized mosquitoes, but they aren’t mosquitoes. Nor do they eat mosquitoes. In fact, adult crane flies eat very little – and that’s if they eat at all. If they do eat, nectar is their preferred sustenance. However, many mosquito eaters only live long enough to mate and lay eggs.
Mosquito eater larvae live in soil or among damp organic matter. During this phase of life crane flies eat decaying plant material, plant roots, or other natural matter depending on their species.
Crane flies do not bite people either. They don’t sting or feed on blood like mosquitoes. But if you’re seeing lots of them around your property, this is indicative of moist conditions around your yard, which could also be mosquito breeding grounds. If one pest is thriving in your yard, there are very likely other types of pest present.
So, mosquito eaters cannot be relied upon for mosquito control. If you really want to reduce the mosquitoes around your property, the best approach is targeted mosquito control. Mosquitoes rest beneath the shade of landscaping, dense foliage, and other protected areas, like beneath decks and porches.
Mosquito Squad Plus of Nashville offers targeted mosquito control, treating areas where mosquitoes live and breed, as well as potential hiding places. Whether you’re in need of continuous mosquito control, with pre-scheduled visits every three weeks, a mosquito misting system, or even a one-time mosquito treatment, Mosquito Squad Plus of Nashville has you covered.
Fill out our online form to schedule a complimentary mosquito control assessment and service quote.
