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What Are No-See-Ums & How Do I Get Rid of Them?

Enlarged image of No-See-Um or biting midge

What Are No-See-Ums?

No-see-ums, tiny flies known as biting midges, biting gnats, or sand flies, can sometimes be difficult to spot due to their small size, especially when they haven’t fed. Just like mosquitoes, the females bite for the blood they need to produce fertile eggs, which they then lay in moist places. Typically No-see-ums are attracted to moist, damp places and feed on plant nectar. Female no-see-ums have also been known to be attracted to light

Where are No-See-Ums Found?

No-see-ums can usually be found in gardens and near ponds, forests, and other outdoor areas, especially near water.

The no-see-um has a four-stage life cycle: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. After mating, females can lay hundreds of eggs and may breed several times during their life cycle. These pesky insects prefer to have their breeding grounds located in wet sand and other humid environments.

No-see-ums are most active in early mornings and evenings of mid to late summer. The Southern states of the United States will be the first to see no-see-ums due to the warmer weather and humidity. 

How to Get Rid of No-See-Um In Your Yard?

No-see-ums can be quite annoying, and some species can transmit pathogens through bloodsucking. But because of their very small size, they can be harder to trap than other flies. Fortunately, there are different methods you can use to avoid or get rid of no-see-ums:

Natural Sprays

These are safer than insecticides and other chemicals. Natural sprays can deter no-see-ums thanks to a powerful mixture of essential oils such as lemon eucalyptus, mint, camphor, and lemon. Once applied, they can provide several hours of protection. These natural sprays can keep No-See-Ums out of your home/yard and can keep you no-see-um bite free year round.

CO2 trap for no-see-ums

CO2 Traps

These types of traps trick no-see-ums by releasing CO2 (carbon dioxide), the same gas animals and people produce when exhaling and that no-see-ums are attracted to. Some traps also use an additional scent to lure the insect. Once no-see-ums get close enough, they are captured by a vacuum or adhesive.

Air-Conditioning

Having your AC running to cool down and dry out the air inside your home can prevent no-see-ums from getting inside your property, as they avoid cold temperatures and low humidity.