Gnats in Central Arkansas
The small, non-biting flies that are commonly found throughout the United States are known as gnats or midges. These flies will usually breed in water environments and can be reproduced in high numbers. The species that are attracted to homes and buildings typically come out at night and are attracted to lights near or on buildings. People often mistake them for mosquitos and may be frustrated by their presence, but fortunately, midges and gnats do not have biting needles, which means they are unable to spread disease.
Gnat Habitat
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 downwind, migrating from nearby ponds, lakes, or rivers to swimming pools, homes, and buildings. Many gnats and midges are attracted to light and can 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.
Gnat Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
While gnats and midges do not bite, their immense numbers near residential or industrial areas can be annoying to people. Places that are near bodies of water are often covered by these insects. These locations can include sporting facilities, recreational facilities, businesses, or lake-front homes. Since midges and gnats fly in a swarm, they are capable of covering homes, patio furniture, vehicles, and plants in the landscape. The large amount of gnats and midges also attracts spiders and spiderwebs to the area.
If you are dealing with a gnat or midge fly problem on your property, contact your local fly exterminators.
