Small fleck-winged snipefly

Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Rotting and Decaying Matter

The eggs of small fleck-winged snipefly are typically laid in moist soil near bodies of water, where larvae emerge and develop, feeding on smaller soil-dwelling organisms. These larvae prefer shaded, humid environments, making leaf litter or under stones common havens. To search for the larvae, sifting through the top layer of soil in such areas would be effective. Pupae are usually found in slightly drier, yet still damp, soil or in transitional areas between aquatic and terrestrial habitats, partially buried. Observers would look for pupae at the soil surface or just beneath. Adult small fleck-winged snipefly frequent areas with dense vegetation and are often encountered in woodlands, meadows, and near streams, typically flying or resting on leaves or branches within the foliage. To find adults, searchers should examine sunlit clearings and forest edges where these insects come to mate and feed.

For adults, the suitable time to find small fleck-winged snipefly would typically be during daylight hours when they are active and likely to be feeding or mating. The larval stage may be more active during dusk or dawn and potentially after rain when the soil is moist, which makes them emerge.

Small fleck-winged snipefly is likely to be most prevalent and active during warm, humid weather conditions, which are optimal for many flying insects in the Diptera order. Extreme heat or cold could reduce their activity levels.