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Biting Midges (No-See-Ums)
Culicoides spp.
Updated May 2026 · Boise, ID
Biting midges, commonly called no-see-ums, are tiny flying insects barely visible to the naked eye. They look like miniature mosquitoes with grayish bodies and patterned wings. Their small size allows...
Quick Facts
Size1-3mm (nearly invisible)
ColorGray to black
Lifespan2-7 weeks as adults
Active SeasonsLate spring, Summer, Early fall
Common LocationsNear water, Marshes, Irrigated areas
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Identification
How to Identify Biting Midges (No-See-Ums)
Quick Answer
Biting midges, commonly called no-see-ums, are tiny flying insects barely visible to the naked eye. They look like miniature mosquitoes with grayish bodies and patterned wings.
Biting midges, commonly called no-see-ums, are tiny flying insects barely visible to the naked eye. They look like miniature mosquitoes with grayish bodies and patterned wings. Their small size allows them to pass through standard window screens.
Behavior
Biting Midges (No-See-Ums) Behavior & Habits
Understanding how biting midges (no-see-ums) behave helps prevent infestations
Female biting midges need blood meals to reproduce. They're most active at dawn and dusk, especially in calm conditions. They breed in moist areas including stream edges, muddy soil, and even over-watered lawns. Unlike mosquitoes, they tend to bite in swarms.
Dangers
Biting Midges (No-See-Ums) Risks & Dangers
What biting midges (no-see-ums) can do to your health and property
Health Risks
Biting midge bites cause intense itching, red welts, and sometimes allergic reactions. Multiple bites can cause significant discomfort. In some regions they can transmit diseases, though this is rare in Idaho.
Property Damage
No property damage. They're purely a nuisance pest that makes outdoor activities unpleasant.
Warning Signs
Signs of Biting Midges (No-See-Ums) Infestation
Look for these indicators in your home
Intensely itchy bites appearing in clusters
Tiny insects barely visible at dusk
Bites occurring despite no visible insects
Problems concentrated near water or wet areas
Welts on ankles, wrists, or neckline after evenings outside
Biting Midges (No-See-Ums) in Boise & the Treasure Valley
Most of our biting midge calls come from homes along the Boise River Greenbelt, the Garden City stretch, and parts of Eagle and Star backing up to the river. Properties near Lucky Peak and heavily irrigated yards in Caldwell, Nampa, and Middleton see the worst of it. Activity climbs in late May, peaks in July and August, and tapers in September, with bites concentrated at dawn and dusk.
Our Solution
How We Eliminate Biting Midges (No-See-Ums)
Professional treatment for complete elimination
Biting midge control targets breeding sites and adult populations. We identify moisture sources, apply larvicides to breeding areas, and use residual treatments on vegetation and structures. Habitat modification matters most. Cutting back irrigation overspray and clearing standing water gives long-term relief.
Prevention
How to Prevent Biting Midges (No-See-Ums)
Steps you can take to reduce the risk of infestation
1
Use fine-mesh screens (smaller than standard)2
Reduce standing water and wet areas3
Avoid outdoor activities at dawn/dusk when midges are active4
Use fans (they can't fly in wind)5
Apply DEET-based repellentsFAQ
Biting Midges (No-See-Ums) Questions Answered
Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment
Why can't I see what's biting me?
Biting midges (no-see-ums) are only 1-3mm long. That's smaller than the head of a pin. They're nearly invisible, especially in low light when they're most active, and their small size lets them pass right through standard window screens.
How do I know if it's no-see-um bites vs mosquito bites?
No-see-um bites tend to be smaller, appear in clusters, and often itch more intensely than mosquito bites. You typically won't see the insect biting you, and bites may take longer to appear than mosquito bites.
Why are they worse near water?
Biting midges breed in moist soil, mud, and vegetated water edges. They don't fly far from breeding sites, so populations are concentrated near water sources, wetlands, and over-irrigated areas.
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