Tiny terrors: dealing with No-See-Ums and their itchy bites

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — One problem with going outdoors this time of year is those biting pests that are extremely difficult to see.

Known as No-See-Ums or biting midges, No-See-Ums are a family of small flies that measure less than half an inch in length.

Despite their small size, their bites can cause very itchy lesions on the skin, often even more itchy than mosquitoes.

Patriot Pest Control owner Michelle Beech said there are several ways to reduce the chances of No-See-Ums bothering you.

“And then we recommend that our customers keep their lawn mowed, citronella can be helpful and then planting plants that kind of deter them like eucalyptus, mint, things like that help as well,” Beech said.

Along with citronella, lavender, lemon balm and lemon grass can help keep No-See-Ums away.

St. James resident Lori Geimke has been dealing with the itchiness caused by their bites for several days.

She said she was not used to these insects in New Jersey and that they bother her and her husband anytime they’re outside.

“We’ve been listening to music in town here or just at a barbeque at a friend’s house,” Geimke said. “And, you can feel them literally biting in your scalp. I don’t feel it on my arms or legs but the scalp isn’t itching, its the arms and the legs. Its almost like its bites underneath the skin and you can feel it and it just wakes you up at night. It’s really annoying.”

Additionally, Beech said eliminating standing water, like puddles or even empty flower pots, will help, as such puddles can be breeding grounds for No-See-Ums and natural oils can reduce the itchiness caused by their bites.