Noel Henson
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A black fly or blackfly (sometimes called a buffalo gnat, turkey gnat, or white socks) is any member of the family Simuliidae of the Culicomorpha infraorder. It is related to the Ceratopogonidae, Chironomidae, and Thaumaleidae. Over 2,200 species of black flies have been formally named, of which 15 are extinct.
Learn about the life cycle, distribution, and feeding habits of black flies, small but annoying biting pests of humans and animals. Find out how to avoid being bitten and the possible diseases they may transmit.
Learn about black fly, a family of about 1,800 species of small, humpbacked flies that bite and suck blood. Find out how they affect humans, animals, and the environment, and how to prevent and treat their bites and diseases.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Apr 10, 2023 · Learn about black flies, also known as buffalo gnats, and their role in the ecosystem. Find out how to protect yourself from their painful bites and what repellents can help you stay bite-free.
- Protect Your Skin. Black flies can be difficult to repel. The simplest way to prevent getting bitten is to protect your skin by wearing long sleeves and pants at all times when outdoors.
- De-Swarm! One particularly annoying habit of black flies is their tendency to swarm the face. This occurs because they are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale.
- Try Some Pine. Some recommended natural repellants include vanilla extract, lavender, and the extract from pine branches — just break open a young branch and rub the moisture from inside on your skin.
- Avoid The Sweets. Avoiding wearing sweet-smelling perfumes, fabric softeners, and indulging in candy or soft drinks when outdoors can also help to reduce your risk of attracting black flies.
Learn about the habits, life cycles, and control of black flies in New Hampshire. Find out how to avoid and repel these biting insects that breed in running water and are active in the daytime.
Learn about the common black aphid that feeds on many plants, including beans, dahlias and viburnums. Find out how to manage blackfly without pesticides and encourage natural enemies in your garden.
