Experts predict an increase in Scotland's daddy longlegs population

It's not good news for Scottish residents with a phobia of creepy crawlies (Photo: Charlesjsharp / Wikimedia Commons)

Scottish residents should expect to see a rise in the number of daddy longlegs (also known as crane flies) this year, after millions of larvae were discovered underground.

According to experts from Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), a change in the country’s climate - specifically wetter conditions over the last 20 years - has led to an increase in the insect’s population.

A menace for farmers

Crane flies are not harmful to humans, but their larvae (known as leatherjackets) eat the roots and shoots of cereal plants, such as oats, wheat and barley, putting crops at risk. Leatherjackets also often feed on the roots of grasses, causing damage to gardens.