Dobsonfly

Dobsonflies are large insects, with adults reaching up to 5 inches in length. They are characterized by their long, slender bodies, smoky gray wings, and prominent mandibles, especially on the males. The larvae, known as hellgrammites, are aquatic with a segmented body and strong jaws.

Dobsonflies are typically solitary insects, so you won't find large infestations. Seeing adult dobsonflies around outdoor lights at night is common, as they are attracted to them. Finding hellgrammites in nearby creeks or streams could indicate their presence near your Myrtle Beach property.

Control efforts for dobsonflies are rarely necessary in Myrtle Beach. MBPC focuses on managing their presence by reducing outdoor lighting that attracts them. Licensed technicians can advise on strategies to minimize attraction near your Grand Strand home, adhering to SC Department of Pesticide Regulation guidelines.

Reduce outdoor lighting around your Myrtle Beach home to minimize attraction of adult dobsonflies. Keep vegetation trimmed back from your house and outdoor lights. Ensure proper drainage around your property to reduce standing water, though this primarily impacts mosquito control in our SC climate.

Dobsonflies are found near rivers, streams, and other bodies of water in the coastal regions of South Carolina. The larvae, hellgrammites, are aquatic and require clean, flowing water to thrive. Adults are often found near lights at night, especially during their mating season in the humid subtropical climate of Myrtle Beach.

Peak activity: Spring-Summer