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Insects

Biting Midges (No-See-Ums)

Culicoides spp.

Danger Level: 2/5Updated September 2026 · Boise, ID

IdentificationHow 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.

Full identification notes

Their small size allows them to pass through standard window screens.

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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.

More about their habits

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.

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.

Property Damage

No property damage.

Full health and property details

Health Risks

Multiple bites can cause significant discomfort. In some regions they can transmit diseases, though this is rare in Idaho.

Property Damage

They're purely a nuisance pest that makes outdoor activities unpleasant.

Signs of Biting Midges (No-See-Ums) Infestation

Look for these indicators in your home

Signs You Have Biting Midges (No-See-Ums)

What homeowners spot first

  1. Intensely itchy bites appearing in clusters
  2. Tiny insects barely visible at dusk
  3. Bites occurring despite no visible insects
More signs to look for
  1. Problems concentrated near water or wet areas
  2. Welts on ankles, wrists, or neckline after evenings outside

Biting Midges (No-See-Ums) in Boise & the Treasure Valley

Biting midges are worst for homes along the Boise River Greenbelt, the Garden City stretch, and parts of Eagle and Star backing up to the river.

More on what we see locally

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 Handle Biting Midges (No-See-Ums)

What our approach looks like

Our Lawn & Mosquito Program covers mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks.

Our full approach

It doesn't cover biting midges. Habitat changes make the biggest difference: cut back irrigation overspray, clear standing water and muddy spots, run a fan on the patio (midges can't fly in wind), and use fine-mesh screens on doors and windows. If mosquitoes, fleas, or ticks are part of the problem too, call (208) 297-7947 and ask about the Lawn & Mosquito Program.

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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 areas
  3. Avoid outdoor activities at dawn/dusk when midges are active
More prevention steps
  1. Use fans (they can't fly in wind)
  2. Apply DEET-based repellents

Biting Midges (No-See-Ums) Questions Answered

Common questions about identification, prevention, and treatment

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Why can't I see what's biting me?

Quick answerBiting 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?

Quick answerNo-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?

Quick answerBiting 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.

Think You Have Biting Midges (No-See-Ums)?

Call and we'll talk through your options. We usually get out within 24 to 48 hours.

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