If you’re dealing with tiny flying pests around your home in New Jersey, chances are they’re midges, not mosquitoes. These small insects can be a nuisance, but with the right knowledge and preventive measures, you can keep them under control.
What Are Midges?
Midges are small, non-biting insects often mistaken for mosquitoes due to their similar appearance. However, they lack the elongated mouthparts mosquitoes use for biting. While these insects don’t feed on blood, they can still be a headache when they swarm around outdoor lights or indoor spaces.
Where Do They Thrive?
Midges in New Jersey typically breed and thrive in aquatic habitats like ponds, lakes, and marshes. If you live near a body of water, you’re more likely to notice them, especially during their peak seasons in the spring and summer months. They’re attracted to moisture and light, making humid, well-lit areas prime spots for infestations.
Are Midges a Health Concern?
While these insects don’t pose the same health risks as mosquitoes, they’re not entirely harmless. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to midge swarms or dead midges that accumulate around windows and doorways. Additionally, their sheer numbers can disrupt outdoor activities and lower the quality of life around your home.
How to Prevent Midge Infestations
Here are some simple yet effective tips to reduce midge activity around your property:
- Eliminate standing water: Midges breed in water, so regularly empty and clean birdbaths, planters, and gutters.
- Use yellow lights: Replace standard outdoor lights with yellow “bug lights,” which are less attractive to midges.
- Install screens: Seal windows and doors with fine mesh screens to keep midge populations from entering your home.
- Maintain your yard: Trim vegetation near water sources to reduce their breeding grounds.
When to Call the Pros
If midges become unmanageable despite your best efforts, it’s time to bring in the professionals. At Allison Pest Control, we specialize in identifying and dealing with pest problems, including midges. Our team can ensure your home stays protected year-round. Don’t let these insects take over your outdoor space. Call Allison Pest Control today and breathe easy knowing the experts are on your side!
