No See Ums: Understanding and Eliminating These Tiny Biting Pests
Published: September 17, 2024
Introduction
No See Ums, also known as biting midges or sandflies, are a persistent pest in many parts of Florida and Texas—especially in warm, coastal areas like Southwest Florida and Houston. Despite their microscopic size, these biting insects can cause intense irritation and discomfort. If you’ve ever felt a sharp sting outdoors with no visible culprit, chances are you’ve encountered a No See Um. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about No See Ums—from their biology and behavior to how to protect your property and your skin.
Whether you're a homeowner, outdoor enthusiast, or business owner, understanding how to deal with No See Ums is essential for maintaining a bite-free environment.
What Are No See Ums?
No See Ums belong to the Ceratopogonidae family and are scientifically recognized as Culicoides spp. These minuscule insects typically measure under 1/16th of an inch but deliver a surprisingly painful bite. Commonly found near salt marshes, beaches, and wooded wetlands, they thrive in the warm, humid climates of both Southwest Florida and Houston.
These pests are most active during early mornings and late evenings, when humidity is high and winds are calm. Their name, "No See Ums," comes from the fact that they're nearly invisible to the naked eye, making them hard to detect—and even harder to avoid.
Why Their Bite Hurts
Female No See Ums require blood to reproduce. When they bite, they use sharp mandibles to tear into the skin and inject saliva containing anticoagulants. The body reacts by releasing histamines, which cause the itching, swelling, and discomfort that follow. Bites can result in small, red welts or blisters and may persist for several days.
Bites and Health Concerns
No See Um bites are more than just an annoyance. For some individuals, repeated exposure can lead to allergic reactions or secondary infections from scratching. Additionally, these pests are known to carry pathogens in other parts of the world, making them more than just a nuisance.
Related CDC Insight: Midges Under the Microscope
A detailed overview from the CDC provides insight into the broader family of biting midges. While most No See Ums in the U.S. aren’t known to spread serious diseases, research into related species highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and control.
Behavior and Habitats of No See Ums
Behavior Patterns
No See Ums are highly sensitive to carbon dioxide, body heat, and sweat. They use these cues to locate their hosts and swarm aggressively in calm conditions. You’ll often find them in swarms near coastal areas, dense vegetation, or anywhere moisture is abundant—including marshlands and bayous around Houston.
Breeding Grounds
No See Ums lay their eggs in damp soil, mud, and decaying vegetation. Here are some common areas they prefer:
- Salt marshes and wetlands
- Beaches and bay shorelines with moist sand
- Overwatered lawns and gardens
- Irrigated farmland and urban drainage areas
To effectively reduce their population, eliminating these breeding sites is key.
Preventing and Controlling No See Ums
A combination of environmental controls, personal protection, and professional pest services can dramatically reduce your exposure.
Environmental Management
- Eliminate Standing Water: Check for puddles, clogged gutters, or poorly drained areas.
- Improve Soil Drainage: Aerate lawns and fix areas with poor water runoff.
- Trim Back Vegetation: Dense foliage retains moisture and provides hiding spots.
- Use Outdoor Fans: These pests are weak fliers and avoid breezy conditions.
Protective Personal Measures
- Fine Mesh Screens: Standard window screens are often insufficient. Use 16-18 mesh or finer.
- Insect Repellents: Products with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are effective.
- Wear Long Clothing: Cover exposed skin during early morning or dusk.
- Avoid Peak Times: Plan outdoor activities away from dawn and dusk hours.
Professional Pest Control
If No See Ums are taking over your yard or property, professional intervention is the most reliable solution. At All U Need Pest Control, we offer targeted fogging treatments and property assessments to help reduce populations. Our expert technicians in both Southwest Florida and Houston know where these pests hide and breed, and we use environmentally safe methods to keep them under control.
Spotlight on Coastal Neighborhoods
Many of our customers live in coastal and riverfront communities where lush landscaping and year-round moisture provide the perfect habitat for biting midges. Neighborhoods especially in and around areas similar to Fort Myers often experience heightened No See Um activity due to their proximity to beaches, canals, mangroves, estuaries, and other natural bodies of water. If you're noticing more bites or swarms at dusk, your location may be part of a larger pattern we're seeing in these hot spots.
Backed by Research: What Science Says About No See Ums
University of Florida IFAS Extension
The University of Florida’s IFAS guide offers a comprehensive look at biting midges in Florida. It includes identification guides and control strategies that support the methods we use at All U Need Pest Control.
CDC Spotlight on Biting Midges
The CDC details the role of biting midges in transmitting diseases outside the U.S., reinforcing the importance of vigilance—even when direct disease transmission isn’t currently a major concern in Florida or Texas.
Nature Research: Climate and No See Um Behavior
Recent studies, including one published in Nature Scientific Reports, suggest that rising temperatures and changing humidity levels are expanding the habitats of biting midges. This highlights the need for evolving pest control strategies, especially in areas like SWFL and Houston.
Conclusion: Don't Let No See Ums Take Over
No See Ums may be small, but their impact on your comfort—and potentially your health—can be significant. Through proper environmental controls, smart prevention tactics, and the help of a trusted pest control provider, you can enjoy your outdoor spaces again without the constant annoyance of bites.
All U Need Pest Control is your trusted local expert in eliminating No See Ums in both Southwest Florida and Houston. Our team is trained in the latest treatment methods and uses data-backed strategies to deliver real results. Contact us today to schedule your inspection and take the first step toward a No See Um-free home.