What Could Be Biting You Other Than Mosquitoes? How to Tell the Difference
- DC Mosquito Defense
- Jul 5
- 3 min read
While mosquitoes often take the blame for itchy bites during the summer, there are several other insects that could be responsible. In Washington, DC, you may encounter various biting and stinging pests beyond mosquitoes, such as black flies, oak mites, and gnats. Learning to identify the type of bite can help you figure out what’s bothering you and how to address it.
1. Mosquitoes
How to Identify: Mosquitoes have a long proboscis that they use to draw blood from the skin. They are most active during dawn and dusk.
Bite Characteristics: Mosquito bites appear as puffy, red welts with a single puncture mark in the center. They can itch intensely within minutes of being bitten.
2. Fleas
How to Identify: Fleas are small, wingless insects that jump onto the skin, usually targeting the legs and ankles.
Bite Characteristics: Flea bites are tiny, red, and tend to occur in clusters or lines. They are usually extremely itchy and are often found around the lower legs and ankles.
3. Bedbugs
How to Identify: Bedbugs are small, reddish-brown insects that hide in bedding and furniture, feeding at night.
Bite Characteristics: Bedbug bites are red, swollen, and often appear in a straight line or cluster, especially on the arms, neck, or face.
4. Ticks
How to Identify: Ticks are small parasites that latch onto skin. They are commonly found in wooded or grassy areas and feed slowly over several days.
Bite Characteristics: Ticks don’t cause immediate itching. You may feel the tick itself attached to your skin, leaving a small red spot. Prompt removal is crucial as ticks can spread diseases like Lyme disease.
5. Black Flies
How to Identify: Black flies, also known as buffalo gnats, are small, dark flies that swarm near water sources and bite exposed skin.
Bite Characteristics: Black fly bites are painful and can cause significant swelling and irritation. The bites tend to bleed and are often found around the head, neck, and arms.
Adult scarlet oak sawfly. (Photo Credit: Univ. Minnesota Coop. Ext.)
6. Oak Mites
How to Identify: Oak mites are tiny, almost invisible to the naked eye, and typically fall from oak trees during late summer.
Bite Characteristics: Oak mite bites appear as red, itchy bumps, often mistaken for chigger bites. They usually occur on the upper body, especially the arms, neck, and chest, where mites fall from trees.
Active oak spider mites & eggs can be washed off leaves with a strong jet-spray of water. (Photo Credit: David Shetlar, Ohio State Coop. Ext.)
7. Gnats
How to Identify: Gnats are small, flying insects that tend to swarm in large groups. They are attracted to moisture and are often found around damp areas.
Bite Characteristics: Gnat bites are tiny, red bumps that can itch and become irritated. They’re often found on exposed skin and can be more annoying than painful.
8. No-See-Ums (Biting Midges)
How to Identify: These tiny, almost invisible flies thrive in humid areas. They are often mistaken for gnats but can deliver a sharp bite.
Bite Characteristics: No-see-um bites are small red bumps that can be incredibly itchy. They are usually found on exposed areas like arms, legs, and face.
How to Handle the Bites and Protect Your Yard
Understanding what type of insect is biting you can help you choose the right course of action. However, when it comes to enjoying your yard and outdoor spaces, prevention is key.
For effective mosquito control and protection from other biting insects, DC Mosquito Defense offers professional treatments that last throughout the season. Our services target common breeding areas, helping to control mosquitoes, gnats, and other pests in your yard.
Our treatments work by:
Reducing adult mosquitoes and other flying insects
Targeting larvae to stop the life cycle
Applying rain-resistant solutions for long-term effectiveness
With DC Mosquito Defense, you can enjoy outdoor activities, barbecues, and summer evenings without worrying about bites from mosquitoes, black flies, or gnats.
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