I posted a photo of Chionea scita on the ID Request page. I am unclear about adding a guide page for this species. There is currently not one. Using the wonders of the internet I was able to locate the expert on the genus, Dr. George Byers, retired, but still easy to contact.

copy of email transaction

Dr. Byers! Photographed this insect in the Georgia Blue Ridge
Mountains, 23 November 2005. I am thinking female Chionea species, but
could not find image of one with such a long ovipositer(I am assuming
that is what it is). Ambient temp was about 35F and sunny. Snow had
been on the ground for about 36 hours. Feel free to use the photo if
you find a need. I can send you a higher resolution file if you wish.
Finding this insect cruising across the snow helped make for a most
interesting day.

James Sullivan, Toccoa, GA


This message is from Dr. George Byers:

Dear Mr. Sullivan,

Yes, your photo is of a snow crane fly, almost surely I'd say Chionea scita Walker. That species can be recognized by its pale color and long antennae. My 1983 paper on North American Chionea indicates that C. scita has been found, but only once, in northeastern Georgia- Vogel State Park, Union County. Thanks for the information and photo.

Best wishes,

George W. Byers