Snakefly

Baissoptera

Snakeflies are unique insects that have long necks and look a bit like snakes! They are often found in gardens.

Habitat: Gardens and forests

Appearance

The Snakefly has a distinctive long, narrow 'neck' formed by its prothorax, giving it a snake-like appearance. They typically feature two pairs of clear, heavily veined wings and a slender, dark brown or black body. Their prominent head has large eyes.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderRaphidiopteraFamilyBaissopteridaeGenusBaissoptera

Snakefly

Interesting facts

Adult snakeflies do not eat solid food; they drink nectar and water for energy.

Snakeflies are ancient insects, appearing on Earth even before dinosaurs roamed!

Their larvae are fierce predators, living hidden under tree bark, hunting other insects.

They are called "snakeflies" because their long, flexible neck allows wide head movement!

Special abilities

Snakeflies can swivel their long 'neck' and head around, which helps them spot and capture prey from various angles.

Snakefly larvae live hidden under tree bark, using their flat bodies to stalk and ambush insects in tight spaces.

Female snakeflies have a long ovipositor that allows them to lay eggs deep in tree bark crevices, protecting them.

Measurements & details

Wingspan: 20-50 mm
Size: 10-30 mm
Lifespan: 14-60 days
Flight Speed: 3 km/h
Leg Count: 6

Diet & Feeding

Both young and adult snakeflies are tiny insect hunters, making them great pest controllers!

Age differences: Larvae hunt insects under bark, while adults also hunt but add nectar and pollen to their diet.

Primary Foods

Aphids
Small caterpillars
Mites
Insect eggs
Nectar

Foraging Method

Foraging

Ecological connections

hunts

White pine weevil

Pissodes strobi

Snakefly larvae prey on larvae of this forest pest.

hunts

Black bean aphid

Aphis fabae

Adult snakeflies actively hunt these soft-bodied insects.

eaten by

Great Tit

Parus major

Forest birds often catch adult snakeflies.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Solitary

Meet animals that enjoy their independence! These creatures prefer to live by themselves, finding food and shelter on their own.

Arboreal

Climb high with animals who love living in trees! These agile creatures find their food, shelter, and even raise their families among the branches.

Camouflaged

Look closely for animals that are masters of disguise, blending perfectly into their surroundings! Their colors and patterns help them hide from others.

Insectivorous

Discover clever creatures that specialize in munching on insects, playing a super important role in keeping bug populations in check. They are nature's tiny bug vacuums!