DSC_5994 Argus cranefly (Austrolimnophila argus) female. A 'lesser cranefly' with intricate eye-spot markings on the wings - in greek mythology Argus was a giant with a hundred eyes. This distinctive little cranefly is widespread through NZ forests from the central North Island southwards. Peak emergence is Oct/Nov. Peel Forest *
DSC_7846 Mountain crane fly (Leptotarsus rufiventris) pair mating in tussock, with brightly coloured male on the left. This is cranefly species of the subalpine tussock meadows in summer. Found in the South Island only, from about Arthur's Pass southwards. Their larvae, also known as leatherjackets, live in soil at the base of tussocks. Tasman Valley, Mount Cook *
DSC_7911 Mountain crane fly (Leptotarsus rufiventris) a brightly coloured male at breeding time. This is a cranefly species of the subalpine tussock meadows in summer. Found in the South Island only, from about Arthur's Pass southwards. Their larvae, also known as leatherjackets, live in soil at the base of tussocks. Tasman Valley, Mount Cook *
