What You Need to Know About Gnats

Gnats are a very common pest problem. They are often seen around lakes, rivers and any form of standing water, which is why the Lake of the Ozarks area sees so many of them. A B Pest Control and Insulation is here to provide a deeper look at these pesky little pests.

What is a Gnat?

Gnats are tiny flies that are sometimes called blackflies or midges. It is in the diptera order, which includes flies and mosquitoes. They are often seen assembled in large mating swarms. They have long, hair-like antennae, which are more prominent in males.

Where Do Gnats Live?

Gnats are found anywhere rivers or lakes exist because they lay their eggs in watery places. They gather in swarms around bodies of water, but can be found indoors as well. They often congregate around dock and porch lights as well, which is why we often see spiders in these areas as midges are their main source of food.  

What Do Gnats Eat?

They feed off of warm-blooded animals to survive, but unlike mosquitoes, gnats usually don’t bite through clothing. They can crawl into hair or under clothing though to get to places such as the ankles and waist lines of pants.

Can Gnats Bite?

Yes, because the do feed off the blood of warm-blooded animals they can bite people. Often times, people who get bitten may not even know it at the time. The bite will eventually swell up a little and become very itchy and possibly painful. If you do get bit by a gnat, wash the bite with soap and water. It is always a good idea to put antiseptic on the bite because gnats can possibly pick up bacteria from other things they’ve landed on previously.

How to Prevent Gnats

Gnats are pesky little insects, especially when they have entered your home. There are several ways to prevent them from coming inside:

1. Get rid of their food supply. Make sure you clean the kitchen and/or dining room regularly. Do not leave left over food sitting out. Make sure you store your food in an air tight container.
2. Cover trash cans. Avoid keeping bags of trash overnight. Clean the indoor trashcan often. Wipe down the lids and sides with bleach – it will kill the gnats instantly.
3. Do not overwater house plants. If there is too much water in the house plants, gnats could lay their eggs in the soil. Make sure you keep an eye on the soil and make sure it is damp as opposed to wet.
4. Check for damp places. Check underneath the sink and other places that water could collect. Gnats love moist places.

If you have taken all preventative measures, but still have gnats hanging around, call your Lake of the Ozarks pest control company. A B Pest Control and Insulation is the Lake area’s most trusted pest control company. We offer flexible service schedules to meet your pest control and budget needs.

Lake of the Ozarks
Pest Control Company

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www.abpest.net

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