Have you ever been outside enjoying a beautiful day, only to be constantly bothered by tiny flies buzzing around your face? These pesky insects, often called gnats, can be incredibly annoying as they swarm near your eyes, nose, and mouth. But why do gnats seem so attracted to our faces? Let’s delve into the reasons behind this common summertime nuisance.
Gnats are small, non-biting flies that belong to several families of the order Diptera. While often mistaken for fruit flies or mosquitoes due to their size, gnats are distinct in their behavior and breeding habits. They thrive in moist environments and are frequently found near water sources, decaying organic matter, and, much to our dismay, hovering around people.
The primary reason gnats are drawn to your face is their attraction to moisture. Gnats are weak fliers and are prone to dehydration. Our faces, particularly our eyes and mouths, are natural sources of moisture. Specifically, gnats are highly attracted to lachrymal fluids, also known as tears, which keep our eyes lubricated. These fluids contain salts and proteins that can be enticing to gnats as a source of hydration and nutrients.
Beyond moisture, gnats are also attracted to the carbon dioxide (CO2) we exhale. Like mosquitoes, gnats use CO2 as a way to locate potential hosts. As you breathe, you release a plume of carbon dioxide, which acts as a beacon for these tiny flies, guiding them towards your face.
Body heat is another factor that makes our faces attractive to gnats. Gnats, like many insects, are sensitive to temperature changes. The warmth emanating from our bodies, especially our faces, can be a draw for them. This is particularly true in cooler environments where the warmth of a living being is more easily detectable.
While most gnats are simply a nuisance and don’t pose a significant threat, it’s important to distinguish them from buffalo gnats, also known as black flies. Buffalo gnats are a type of gnat that can be harmful. Unlike common gnats, buffalo gnats are biting flies. They are notorious pests, particularly in certain regions, and are known to aggressively bite humans and animals.
Buffalo gnat bites can be far more irritating than mosquito bites, causing intense itching, swelling, and even allergic reactions in some individuals. In severe cases, particularly with livestock, heavy infestations of buffalo gnats have been known to cause fatalities due to blood loss and toxic reactions to their saliva. These aggressive biters are typically most active in late spring and early summer.
While common gnats around your face are generally harmless, their persistent buzzing can be incredibly irritating. To minimize their annoyance, consider using insect repellents, especially those containing DEET or picaridin. Wearing light-colored clothing can also help, as gnats are sometimes attracted to dark colors. Reducing standing water around your home and using fans outdoors can further deter these tiny flies.
In conclusion, gnats fly around your face primarily because they are attracted to moisture, carbon dioxide, and body heat, with eye fluids being a particularly strong attractant. While most gnats are just a nuisance, being aware of the difference between common gnats and biting buffalo gnats is important, especially in areas where buffalo gnats are prevalent. By understanding why gnats are drawn to us, we can take better steps to minimize their bothersome presence and enjoy our time outdoors.
