Also known as "no-see-ums", "sandflies", and "punkies", Biting Midges are so small that they can pass through ordinary mosquito netting. The parts of the body attacked vary widely. Some species attack around the head and eyes. Others attack the ankles, often crawling up the body under clothes. Targets soon become aware of a burning sensation, and subsequent welts may itch for days.

Frequently confused with Black Flies, their appearance (aside from size), life cycle, distribution, and habits are quite similar. Any area near water is a good habitat for one or another species. Even more than Black Flies, Biting Midges restrict their attacks largely to daylight hours.