Greetings, enlightened homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts. Dr. Killigan here, and today we're diving deep into the world of biting midges—those tiny but mighty insects that could very well be sharing your space right now. Though they may be small, th

<p data-mce-fragment="1" id="isPasted">Greetings, enlightened homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts. Dr. Killigan here, and today we&apos;re diving deep into the world of biting midges&#x2014;those tiny but mighty insects that could very well be sharing your space right now. Though they may be small, these pests pack quite a punch. They&apos;re responsible for an array of skin irritations commonly misattributed to other insect bites. Indeed, the issue of biting midges is far from trivial; it&#x2019;s a matter of both human and animal health that should not be underestimated.</p><p data-mce-fragment="1">These diminutive creatures often go unnoticed until you start feeling those insufferable itches. Though they are commonly confused with other bugs like <a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/insects/mosquitoes-their-bites-and-the-diseases-they-carry?_pos=2&amp;_sid=8bab55a42&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/insects/mosquitoes-their-bites-and-the-diseases-they-carry?_pos=2&amp;_sid=8bab55a42&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">mosquitoes</a> and <a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/pest-control/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-mites-in-my-house?_pos=2&amp;_sid=d5297e189&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/pest-control/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-mites-in-my-house?_pos=2&amp;_sid=d5297e189&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">mites</a>, biting midges have their own unique set of problems. Their bites can not only ruin your outdoor gatherings but can also pose severe risks to livestock and pets.</p><h2 data-mce-fragment="1" id="biting-midges-vs-other-insects-how-they-differ-from-common-bug-bites">Biting midges vs. other insects: How they differ from common bug bites</h2><p data-mce-fragment="1">Many often mistake midge bites for <a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/pest-control/the-best-essential-oils-for-insect-repellents-and-itchy-bug-bites?_pos=1&amp;_sid=5a213fccd&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/pest-control/the-best-essential-oils-for-insect-repellents-and-itchy-bug-bites?_pos=1&amp;_sid=5a213fccd&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">bug bites</a> from mosquitoes or fleas. However, there are notable differences. Unlike mosquito bites, which often form elevated, red areas, midge bites usually result in small, flat, red patches that are intensely itchy. They also differ from flea bites, which tend to concentrate around the legs and are less likely to cause intense itching.</p><p data-mce-fragment="1">In fact, midge bites can be so irritating that they can lead to severe skin conditions if not addressed promptly. Unlike most other insect bites, the reactions to biting midges can be incredibly persistent and even lead to bacterial skin infections if scratched excessively. Therefore, correct identification and prompt treatment are essential.</p><p><br></p><h2 data-mce-fragment="1" id="no-see-um-bites-the-invisible-nemesis">No see um bites: The invisible nemesis</h2><p data-mce-fragment="1">You may have heard them referred to as &quot;no see ums,&quot; and it&apos;s an apt name. These tiny bloodsuckers can often elude the naked eye, making them especially troublesome. The problem with no see um bites is the lack of awareness. Many people have no idea they&apos;ve been a feeding ground for these pests until the itching starts, and by then, it&apos;s often too late to take preventive measures.</p><p data-mce-fragment="1">Even worse, no see ums have a knack for indoor infiltration. They can make their way through regular window and door screens, making them a household pest in addition to an outdoor annoyance. And let&#x2019;s not forget: these tiny but mighty creatures can transmit diseases like Blue Tongue virus and even parasites.</p><h2 data-mce-fragment="1" id="mite-bites-vs-midges-a-comparative-study">Mite bites vs. midges: A comparative study</h2><p data-mce-fragment="1">It&apos;s not uncommon for people to confuse mite bites with those of biting midges. Both are small and often result in a similar itch. However, <a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/products/how-to-get-rid-of-spider-mites-on-plants?_pos=1&amp;_sid=d5297e189&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/products/how-to-get-rid-of-spider-mites-on-plants?_pos=1&amp;_sid=d5297e189&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">mites</a> tend to be parasites on animals, including humans, and often live in the home, especially <a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/insects/what-bit-me-in-my-sleep?_pos=1&amp;_sid=206de44c5&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/insects/what-bit-me-in-my-sleep?_pos=1&amp;_sid=206de44c5&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">in bedding</a> or furniture. Midge bites, on the other hand, are more likely to occur outdoors or in areas where these insects can breed in water.</p><p data-mce-fragment="1">The crucial thing to remember here is that both types of bites require different treatment methods. Mite bites often necessitate treating the home environment, while midge bites can often be managed through topical treatments and environmental controls like insect repellents. Knowing the difference can save you time, money and most importantly, alleviate your symptoms faster.</p><h2 data-mce-fragment="1" id="the-risk-to-humans-an-unseen-health-threat">The risk to humans: An unseen health threat</h2><p data-mce-fragment="1">Perhaps the most unsettling thing about biting midges is their ability to spread diseases. While not as prolific as&#xA0;<a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/pest-control/keeping-mosquitos-away-from-your-home?_pos=3&amp;_sid=8bab55a42&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/pest-control/keeping-mosquitos-away-from-your-home?_pos=3&amp;_sid=8bab55a42&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">mosquitoes</a>, they are capable of transmitting harmful viruses and parasites. Moreover, the severity of the skin reaction to their bites can vary greatly among individuals. Some may experience a mild itch, while others might suffer from severe dermatitis requiring medical attention.</p><p data-mce-fragment="1">What&apos;s more, for those with immune system vulnerabilities, these bites can lead to complications such as secondary bacterial infections. Simply put, what may start as an innocent trip to the garden can escalate into a medical ordeal if you are not careful.</p><h2 data-mce-fragment="1" id="animal-health-risks-not-just-a-human-problem">Animal health risks: Not just a human problem</h2><p data-mce-fragment="1">Our furry friends and livestock are not spared either. Biting midges pose a particular</p><p data-mce-fragment="1">risk to animals, as their bites can transmit viruses like the Schmallenberg virus, which affects livestock. Symptoms often include fever, reduced milk production and, in severe cases, birth defects in calves and lambs.</p><p><a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/ingredients/pest-control-products-safe-for-pets?_pos=1&amp;_sid=65c4e48ab&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/ingredients/pest-control-products-safe-for-pets?_pos=1&amp;_sid=65c4e48ab&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">Pets like dogs and cats</a> are also susceptible to skin irritation due to midge bites, which can result in persistent scratching and subsequent skin infections. Considering the scale of the problem, it&apos;s clear that midges are not just a human issue but a significant animal health risk.</p><p>&#xA0;</p><h2 data-mce-fragment="1" id="prevention-and-protection-dr-killigans-safe-solutions">Prevention and protection: Dr. Killigan&apos;s safe solutions</h2><p data-mce-fragment="1">So, what can be done about these tiny but mighty nuisances? Keeping biting midges out of your home is essential, especially during peak seasons. A combination of preventive measures can be effective in keeping these annoying insects at bay.</p><h3 data-mce-fragment="1" id="physical-barriers">Physical Barriers:</h3><ul data-mce-fragment="1"><li data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Window Screens: Equip all windows and doors with fine-mesh screens to deter midges from entering your home.</li><li data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Door Seals: Install door sweeps and weather stripping to eliminate any gaps that could serve as entry points for these pests.</li></ul><h3 data-mce-fragment="1" id="non-toxic-treatments">Non-Toxic Treatments:</h3><ul data-mce-fragment="1"><li data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;"><a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/products/six-feet-under-non-toxic-insect-spray" href="https://drkilligans.com/products/six-feet-under-non-toxic-insect-spray" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">Six Feet Under</a>: This product offers an excellent, non-toxic alternative to traditional insecticides. Effective against over 50 species of insects, Six Feet Under kills bugs both on contact and residually for up to 30 days. Formulated with a unique blend of essential oils&#x2014;<a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/ingredients/the-benefits-of-soybean-oil?_pos=1&amp;_sid=5422b42f5&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/ingredients/the-benefits-of-soybean-oil?_pos=1&amp;_sid=5422b42f5&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">soybean</a>,&#xA0;<a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/products/how-beneficial-is-clove-oil?_pos=1&amp;_sid=0c0b4ac99&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/products/how-beneficial-is-clove-oil?_pos=1&amp;_sid=0c0b4ac99&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">clove</a> and&#xA0;<a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/ingredients/the-many-benefits-of-cinnamon-and-how-to-use-it?_pos=1&amp;_sid=674deb890&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/ingredients/the-many-benefits-of-cinnamon-and-how-to-use-it?_pos=1&amp;_sid=674deb890&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">cinnamon</a>&#x2014;this spray targets bugs at multiple levels. Soybean oil suffocates insects by obstructing their breathing passages, while the compounds in clove and cinnamon oils swiftly incapacitate their nervous systems. Spray it on your window screens and, with its 30-day residual effect, it will keep midges from entering your home. Also safe for use on floors, at other entry points and around the house, it&apos;s your go-to for proactive and sustainable pest control.</li></ul><h3 data-mce-fragment="1" id="natural-alternatives">Natural Alternatives:</h3><ul data-mce-fragment="1"><li data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Essential Oils:&#xA0;<a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/products/how-to-repel-ants-with-essential-oils?_pos=1&amp;_sid=60b004a07&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/products/how-to-repel-ants-with-essential-oils?_pos=1&amp;_sid=60b004a07&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">Essential oils</a> like lavender, citronella and tea tree can act as natural repellents. Use them in diffusers or create your own sprays to apply at entryways.</li><li data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Plants: Lavender, citronella and marigold plants can&#xA0;<a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/products/which-plants-repel-insects?_pos=2&amp;_sid=146700b02&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/products/which-plants-repel-insects?_pos=2&amp;_sid=146700b02&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">deter insects</a>, including biting midges, when placed near entrances and windows.</li></ul><h3 data-mce-fragment="1" id="environmental-control">Environmental Control:</h3><ul data-mce-fragment="1"><li data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Standing Water:&#xA0;<a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/insects/6-uninvited-house-bugs-this-summer?_pos=17&amp;_sid=28354c8ef&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/insects/6-uninvited-house-bugs-this-summer?_pos=17&amp;_sid=28354c8ef&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">Eliminate sources of standing water</a> around your home where midges are known to breed.</li><li data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-style="font-weight: 400;">Lawn and Garden Care: Regular mowing and&#xA0;<a data-mce-fragment="1" data-mce-href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/pest-control/tips-for-diy-pest-control?_pos=3&amp;_sid=5979fc28f&amp;_ss=r" href="https://drkilligans.com/blogs/pest-control/tips-for-diy-pest-control?_pos=3&amp;_sid=5979fc28f&amp;_ss=r" style=" text-decoration: inherit;">trimming of your yard</a> can also disrupt the natural habitat that midges seek out.</li></ul><h2 data-mce-fragment="1" id="conclusion-a-proactive-approach-to-tiny-but-mighty-threats">Conclusion: A proactive approach to tiny but mighty threats</h2><p data-mce-fragment="1">Ignoring the problem of biting midges is not an option, given the potential health risks involved for both humans and animals. Early identification and intervention are crucial to managing this microscopic menace effectively. Let&apos;s not underestimate these tiny but mighty insects. With the right information and preventive steps, you can protect your family and pets from the unseen impact of biting midges.</p><p data-mce-fragment="1">Stay enlightened. Stay protected.&#xA0;</p>

Tiny but Mighty: The Impact of Biting Midges

Dr. Killigan's

Biting Midges

Insect Information

Winged Insects

The Benefits of Soybean Oil

The Benefits of Peppermint Oil

Cinnamon's Benefits and How to Use It

Peppermint Oil for Pests

Best Essential Oils for Bug and Bites

Clove Oil Benefits

Benefits and Uses of Rosemary Oil

Top Essential Oils for Bugs and Bites

Insect-Repelling Power of Eastern Red Cedar

Soybean Oil’s Secret to Stopping Bugs

Essential Oils and Natural Remedies

Protect Your Home in Winter from Future Infestation

Will Bugs Wake Up in My Home This Winter?

5 Garden Pests This Fall

Tips to Keep Bugs Out This Summer

Will Bugs Wake Up in My Home this Winter?

Guide to Christmas Tree Bugs

Protecting Your Home Through the Seasons

Hidden Toxins in Pet Food

Pet-Safe Pest Control Products

Is Clove Oil Safe for Dogs?

Pet Safe Ant Killer

Does Dog Food Attract Bugs?

Pet Health

How Silica Strengthens Plants

Using Silica for Your Plants

How Silica Benefits Your Plants

Garden Remedies

How is Your Home Attracting Insects

Do Different Smells Attract Insects

Why Are Bugs Attracted to My Bathroom?

Does Mold Attract Bugs?

How to Get Rid of Bugs in Your House

Is Your Home Attracting Insects

Atrazine: Banned in Europe, Used in U.S.

Pesticides Linked to Child Neurodevelopment Risks

Reasons to Avoid Bug Bombs

Can Pesticides Cause Cancer?

What does pest control do?

Green Pest Control

Is Sustainable Pest Control Possible?

Stearic Acid in Pest Control

The Truth About Pesticide Labels

Are Minimum-Risk Pest Products Safe

Eco-Friendly Pest Management Methods

Using Minimum-Risk Pest Products in Your Garden

Keeping Pets & Homes Pest-Free

Healthy Air and Reduced Pesticide Use

Reasons to Fire Your Pest Control Company

When Can Babies Return Home After Pest Control?

Revolutionizing Pest Control

Revolutionizing Pest Control II

A Safer Future: Non-Toxic Pest Control

Mechanical Kill Pest Control

Issues With Mainstream Pest Control Methods

Affordable Non-Toxic Pest Control Solutions

Mechanical vs chemical Pest Control

DIY Pest Control vs Professional

Toxic Traps: Chemicals Contributing to Disease

The Ultimate Guide to Pest Control

DIY Pest Control

Permethrin to Kill Bugs?

Pest Control Industry Trends

DIY Pest Control Tips

Keep Bugs Out of Your Pantry Permanently

Guide to Household Insect Problems

Contact vs Residual Spray

The Importance of Non-Toxic Pest Control

Home Preparation for Travel

Insecticide Resistance: Challenges and Solutions

What Are Pyrethrins and Pyrethroids?

A complete guide to minimum-risk pest products

Pest Control

Home, Garden, and Family Health

Product Warranty

Wholesale

Pantry Moth Traps FAQs

Clothing Moth Traps FAQs

The Fly Inn FAQs

The Fly Inn Replacements FAQs

Insect Buster FAQs

Six Feet Under FAQs

Six Feet Under: Holiday FAQs

Sweet Surrender FAQs

Fruit Fly Trap FAQs

Cedar Planks - FAQs

Cedar Chip Canister FAQs

Cedar Ward Spray FAQs

Dust to Dust FAQs

Six Feet Under: Barricade FAQs

Pantry Protection Pair FAQs

Clothing Conservation Combo FAQs

Bug Slayer Bundle FAQs

Insect Combat Kit FAQS

Insect Eviction Kit

Kitchen Security Kit

Product FAQs

FAQs

Getting Rid of Chiggers

Chiggers

What to Do for a Spider Bite

Do Cobwebs Mean a Spider Infestation?

The Gray House Spider

Jumping vs. Wolf Spiders: Secrets of Their Molting

Bog Spiders: Hidden Horrors of Cranberry Swamps

What is the Worlds Most Venomous Spider

Where Are Banana Spiders Found?

Protect Your Home From Spiders

Non-Toxic Spider Spray for My House

Do Cobwebs Mean a Spider Infestation? copy

How Long Can Spiders Live Without Food?

Helpful Hunters: Identifying Baby Wolf Spiders

Spiders

What Attracts Scorpions?

Scorpions

Spider Mites on Plants

How to Know if You Have Mites

Hidden Home Threats: Insect Diseases and Dust Mite Dangers

Mites

Arachnids

Do ladybugs bite?

The truth about ladybugs and their diet

Asian lady beetle vs. ladybug

Are Ladybugs Toxic?

Ladybugs

Do I Want Assassin Bugs in My Garden?

Assassin bugs

Myth or Reality: Green Lacewing Bites

Green Lacewing

Cicada Chaos: Singing, Shells & Lawn Potholes

The Secret Life of Cicada Larvae

Cicadas

Get Rid of and Prevent Boxelder Bugs

Boxelder Bugs

Aphid Wasp: The Gardener's Secret Weapon

Protect Your Plants From Aphids

Aphid Lions: Garden Allies

How to Get Rid of Aphids

Aphids

Why are Gnats in Plants?

Best Gnat Spray for Indoor and Outdoor Plants

Do Gnats Bite?

Gnats

Garden and Plant Insects

Banishing Mosquitos

Keeping Mosquitoes Away from Your Home

The Global Threat of Invasive Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes: Surprising Ecological Benefits

Mosquitoes: Bites and the Diseases They Carry

Mosquitos

Tips for Choosing the Best Indoor Fly Control

Fly Trap Attractant Secrets

Natural Ways to Deter Flies

How To Get Rid of Flies

Reasons You See House Flies in Winter

How Long do Flies Live?

A fly’s life: its purpose and benefits

Top 5 Species of Flies

Is a Fly On Food That Bad?

Flies

Do Dobsonflies Bite

Dobsonflies

Do Mayflies Bite?

Mayflies

Getting Rid of Spotted Lanternflies

Spotted Lanternflies

Can Drain Flies Make Me Sick?

Drain flies

Bees and Their wings

Repel and Get Rid of Bees

Ways to Deter Bees

Honey Bee vs. Yellow Jacket

The Prolific Nature of a Queen Bee

Do All Bees and Wasps Sting? When to Worry

Bees

How to Get Rid of Wasps

Are Wasps Dangerous?

How Long Do Wasps Live?

Getting Rid of Cicada Killer Wasps

Get Rid of Wasps with Diatomaceous Earth

Wasps

How to Instantly Kill Carpenter Bees

Carpenter Bees

Fruit Flies Worse in Fall?

Fruit Fly Freedom: How Our Trap Works

Do Fruit Flies Bite?

What Attracts Flies and Their Preferred Colors

Are Fruit Flies and Gnats the Same?

The Sweet Escape Revolutionizes Pest Control

Vinegar vs. Fruit Flies

Phorid Flies vs. Fruit Flies

Are Fruit Flies Radiation Resistant

Why are Fruit Flies Difficult to Irradiate?

The Difference Between Fruit Flies and Gnats

Fruit Flies