Question
I live in SouthTexas.  What is the name of the insect I try to describe here:it is about the size of a Mayfly,very dark black in color--often with 2-4 white spots on its body,has one leg that is bent when it lands,extremely attracted to light at night,flies very fast?  I think it may be in the cricket family because it may make a sound with its wings like ticking

Answer
Charlotte,

Could you post a picture? This description fits a lot of insects and I'm not getting a clear mental image. If you capture one you could also take to your county Cooperative Extension office for identification. Sorry I can't be more specific.

Jack DeAngelis
http://www.livingwithbugs.com