Black flies, often referred to as biting gnats, are small insects closely related to mosquitoes, and a common nuisance, particularly in areas with streams and rivers. A frequent question is: Do Black Flies Bite? The answer is yes, female black flies are indeed biters. They require blood to develop their eggs, unlike their male counterparts who feed on plant nectar. These small flies, ranging from an eighth to a quarter of an inch, can deliver a surprisingly painful and itchy bite.
The bite of a black fly is distinct. It’s not a simple prick like a mosquito bite. When a female black fly bites, she actually cuts into the skin to create a wound. She then feeds on the blood that pools in this tiny laceration. During this process, she injects saliva containing anticoagulants to keep the blood flowing, a painkiller to avoid detection, and toxins. It’s the body’s reaction to these foreign substances and toxins that causes the characteristic pain, itching, and swelling associated with black fly bites. These bites typically appear as a reddened bump with a noticeable wound at the center. While black fly bites are certainly unpleasant and can be quite irritating, it’s important to note that in Minnesota, they are not known to transmit any diseases to humans.
In regions like Minnesota, where black flies can be abundant, control programs are in place. Organizations like MMCD use environmentally conscious methods, such as treating rivers and streams with Bti, a natural bacteria, to target black fly larvae in the water, helping to manage their populations.
While the question “do black flies bite?” is definitively answered with a yes, understanding the nature of their bite and its effects can help in managing expectations and reactions. Black fly bites, though painful and itchy, are generally more of a nuisance than a serious health threat in areas like Minnesota, thanks to the lack of disease transmission and ongoing control efforts.
