Jääkärpäset

Jääkärpäset, also known as ice flies or snow flies, are not true flies but rather belong to the order Mecoptera, specifically the family Boreidae. These unique insects are adapted to cold environments and are most commonly observed during winter months. Their common name, "ice fly," is a bit misleading as they are not flies in the typical sense.

Boreidae are small, wingless insects, though some species possess reduced, scale-like wings. They have a distinctive elongated snout or rostrum, which gives them a somewhat unusual appearance. Jääkärpäset are typically found in damp, cool habitats such as mossy areas, leaf litter, and the undersides of logs, often in coniferous forests.

The most remarkable characteristic of Jääkärpäset is their activity in cold temperatures. They can be seen crawling on snow or ice when the temperature is well below freezing, sometimes even at -20 degrees Celsius or colder. Their metabolic processes are adapted to function in these extreme conditions.

Their diet primarily consists of small invertebrates, algae, and mosses. Reproduction and egg-laying also occur during the winter. The larvae are typically found in the soil or decaying wood. Jääkärpäset are a fascinating example of insect adaptation to harsh winter conditions, often overlooked due to their small size and preference for cold, concealed habitats.