Biting flies

[dak]

Last weekend i was working in the garden and i was bitten by a numerious small black flies about 3, or 4 mm in length with clear wings. The bites (which seem to be restricted to lower legs and the waist band area) have resulted in small (2 or 3 mm accross) spots that are extremley itchy. The garden is a good way from water but there are farm animals and dogs and cats close by. Can anyone identify these black flies and tell me how i can deal with them?

[Geoff F]

There are several flies which give painful bites. Have a look at the Serromyia family (Biting Midges).

Here is one that I photographed during May last year.

[Jason Green]

Evening Dak, and welcome to WAB!

I think Geoff has a good idea there with that fly, from the Ceratopogonidae family (scientific classification).

Take care,

Jason

[dak]

thanks for your responses, I appriciate it. The bites are more itchy than painfull and there are literally hundreds of bites on me. I will try to catch one this weekend and photograph it for you guys

[Paul mabbott]

I see no one has give advice on what you can do. Since you're not suffering any reaction then it's just a matter of keeping them away: insect repellents containing citronella usually work. The only alternative is to cover up or wait a few weeks and hope they go away ()!

[artdemole]

Lemon balm is good.I bought a plant this week.