Meet the common lined crane fly (Tipula lateralis), a relatively large and widespread Palaearctic species easily distinguished by a light-grey stripe down its abdomen and a bold black stripe running across its thorax right behind the eyes. Depending on the local climate, these leggy insects enjoy a remarkably long flight season, active from March all the way through October. While many crane fly larvae develop in damp soil, T. lateralis larvae lead a specialized semi-aquatic lifestyle, dwelling at the bottom of streams and ponds where they act as vital detritivores, breaking down decaying plant matter and algae. While traveling across northern Sweden in June 2026, I frequently encountered these large, awkwardly drifting insects. Getting a sharp shot proved incredibly challenging, as they seemed to be in constant, erratic motion. However, one evening right on the Finnish border, a single specimen finally decided to grant me a brief, multi-minute intermission, resting long enough on the foliage for me to lock focus and secure some beautiful, clean portraits.