Snakefly
ExploreInsects
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
Category
InsectsRarity
Rare
Danger
2/5 · Low
Snaps
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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
Ability
Neck Swivel
Snakeflies can swivel their long 'neck' and head around, which helps them spot and capture prey from various angles.
Ability
Stealthy Larvae
Snakefly larvae live hidden under tree bark, using their flat bodies to stalk and ambush insects in tight spaces.
Ability
Precise Egg-laying
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
Wildlife encompasses all undomesticated animal and plant life existing in their natural habitats.
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Arboreal
Arboreal animals live primarily in trees, utilizing them for shelter, food, and protection from predators.
Camouflaged
Camouflaged describes organisms that possess coloring or patterns that allow them to blend into their environment.
Insectivorous
This trait identifies organisms whose diet primarily consists of insects and other small invertebrates.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Nocturnal
Nocturnal animals are primarily active during the nighttime hours, typically resting or sleeping during the day.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
2/5 · Low
Do not touch or pick up. Some insects sting or bite. Ask an adult for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Snakefly's wingspan?
20-50 mm
How big is Snakefly?
10-30 mm
How long does Snakefly live?
14-60 days
How fast can Snakefly fly?
3 km/h
What does Snakefly eat?
Both young and adult snakeflies are tiny insect hunters, making them great pest controllers!
Where is Snakefly usually found?
Gardens and forests
How does Snakefly hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Snakefly have?
6
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