Description of the Pest
Range crane fly larvae are pale brown, legless maggots that are often called leather jackets because of their leathery appearance. Mature larvae may reach 1 inch in length.
Damage
Damage is caused by the larval stage and is primarily confined to rangeland and grasses, but occasionally dryland grains planted in the foothills may be injured. Damage generally occurs from late December through February and is first apparent as areas of dead or dying plants throughout the field. Larvae feed on plant roots and may emerge from the soil at night to feed on the plant crowns.
Management
No pesticides are registered for use on range crane fly on small grains.