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Appearance
Actual Size: 1/16” to ⅛”
Characteristics: Grayish-black with gray or see-through wings.
Legs: 6
Wings: Yes
Antennae: Yes
Habitat
Often found around bodies of water, which is where they lay their eggs.
Habits
Gnats and midges are common names for a large number of small, non-biting flies found throughout the nation. These flies typically breed in aquatic environments and can emerge from these sources in high numbers. Most species that affect homes and buildings are nighttime fliers that are attracted to light on buildings. People are often troubled by the presence of these insects as they confuse them with mosquitoes. However, unlike mosquitoes, midges and gnats lack a biting needle, and because of this, they cannot spread disease.
Gnats and midges are most common in spring and summer, and are important pests around lakes, rivers, and aquatic areas where they lay their eggs. Although they are weak fliers, they can be carried long distances by downwinds, migrating from nearby ponds, lakes or rivers to swimming pools, homes and buildings. Many gnats and midges are attracted to light and may be a nuisance, landing on people or entering homes or businesses. These tiny flies do not feed and only live long enough to mate, lay eggs, and die.
Although they do not bite, during peak emergence, immense numbers of gnats and midges move into adjacent residential or industrial areas causing annoyance and damage. Lake-front homes, sporting facilities, recreational areas, and businesses are often blanketed by these insects. Midges and gnats fly in swarms that look like clouds and can completely cover houses, vehicles, patio furniture, and plants in the landscape. Where midges are plentiful, spiders and spider webs abound, and this adds to peoples concern. At night, midges are attracted to outdoor lights in large numbers.
If you are dealing with a gnat/midge fly problem in your property, contact your local exterminators.