No-See-Um Bites vs. Mosquito Bites
Posted by Mosquito SquadDecember 20, 2023
Florida is home to nearly 50 species of biting midges, often referred to as no-see-ums.
Life in Northeast Florida is great, but like all tropical locations, Florida has its share of biting insects. We are additionally unfortunate to be home to about 80 mosquito species and many biting flies, as well. Florida residents and visitors alike, have probably suffered bites from no-see-ums and mosquitoes.
What is the difference between no-see-um bites vs. mosquito bites?
Both no-see-ums and mosquitoes bite us for the same reason – to fertilize their eggs. There are differences in the bites were receive from no-see-ums and mosquitoes, starting with the way each bite feels. Midges are much smaller than mosquitoes, but their bites are notably more painful, as they slice into your skin with their mouth parts. It can take up to 24 hours for no-see-um bites to produce skin lesions, while mosquito bites can be visible within moments or hours. These lesions also differ from mosquito bites in a couple of other ways. First, they are darker, and can occur in clusters, whereas mosquito bites will a single bite or spread across a wider range. Though reactions can vary, typical mosquito bites will itch for a few hours, and begin to subside. No-see-um bites can last for a couple of weeks.
How else do no-see-ums and mosquitoes differ?
No-see-ums are so tiny they can breach typical screening and mesh. It is advisable to use screens with a tighter weave to keep midges out of your house. Their size also bodes well for us in that we can help keep them away from small areas by turning on a strong fan. Both pests are vectors of illness, though it is less likely that a no-see-um will cause disease in the United States. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in water, while midges can deposit their eggs in water-holding receptacles or other moist environments, such as mud, and rotting food. No-see-ums can lay anywhere from 25 to just over 100 eggs per clutch, depending on their species, as well as the size of their blood meal. Mosquitoes usually lay at least 100 eggs at a time, but can produce up to 300. The average lifespan of a female mosquito is about 49 days, with an average no-see-um lifespan coming in at about 32 days.
Mosquito and no-see-um control Jacksonville are one and the same.
If you are experiencing an influx of biting midges, mosquitoes, fleas, or other nuisance pests around your Northeast Florida home, it’s time you spoke with Mosquito Squad. We offer comprehensive mosquito control and no-see-um control throughout the Jacksonville Florida area.
Don’t suffer the pain of no-see-um bites! Call on Mosquito Squad of Northeast Florida for trusted no-see-um control Jacksonville. Get in touch with us at (904) 844-0816.