Why are the gnats so bad right now? How to get rid of those annoying pests in Phoenix

Throughout metro Phoenix, people are enjoying time outside before summer's heat sends us back indoors. This spring, there's a little thing that's making our outdoor time less enjoyable.

Gnats.

These tiny flying insects are a nuisance, hovering around faces and swarming in large numbers.

Gnats are attracted to moisture, so they are often found near bodies of water, moist soil or even freshly cut grass. Female gnats bite people because they require a blood meal to produce eggs, while males feed on plants. Symptoms of a gnat bite may include itching, discomfort and localized swelling.

Here is everything you need to know about gnats in Phoenix.

What are the little flies in Phoenix?

The little flies annoying you are probably gnats. Gnats are attracted to warm, moist environments and are often found near overripe fruits and vegetables, damp soil and standing water.

Why are the gnats so bad right now?

Gnat infestations in Arizona can be attributed to various factors. Weather conditions play a significant role, as gnats thrive in warm, moist environments. Sudden increases in humidity or rainfall can contribute to a surge in the gnat population, according to San Tan Pest and Weed Control.in San Tan Valley.

Breeding grounds are another key factor to consider. Gnats breed in damp areas, so check for places where water may be collecting, such as around leaky pipes or overwatered outdoor plants. Overwatered houseplants are a common attractant for gnats, so allowing the soil to dry out between watering can help.

Overripe fruits and vegetables can attract gnats, so keep your kitchen clean and trash properly disposed of.

Why am I getting so many gnats in my house?

If you're experiencing an abundance of gnats in your house, several factors could be contributing to the problem. Gnats are attracted to warm, moist environments and breed in damp areas, so reduce or eliminate areas where water collects in your yard and house.

Keep your kitchen clean because gnats are attracted to food scraps.

Finally, environmental changes such as landscaping or nearby construction can disrupt gnat habitats, causing them to seek refuge indoors.

How do I get rid of gnats in Arizona?

Dealing with gnats in Arizona can be challenging. Here are a few methods from Fromms Pest Control in Phoenix that you can try to get rid of them:

• Apple cider vinegar trap: Fill a shallow dish with apple cider vinegar and add a few drops of dish soap. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and secure it with a rubber band, then poke small holes in the plastic wrap. Gnats will be attracted to the scent of the vinegar, enter through the holes and get trapped in the dish. You can also try this with red wine in place of vinegar.

• Keep your home clean: Ensure trash cans are tightly sealed, wipe your counters frequently and don't leave dirty dishes around.

• Dry out breeding sites: Gnats breed in damp environments, so keep your environment as dry as possible. Fix any leaks in pipes, faucets or any other areas where water might accumulate.

• Herbal repellents: Planting herbs like basil, lavender or mint around the house can help repel gnats.

What attracts gnats to you?

Gnats are attracted to carbon dioxide, moisture, body heat and odor.

Sweat, breath, tears and body heat are the most significant attractants, according to Orkin, because gnats are drawn to the salts, minerals and other nutrients found in human sweat.

Also, avoid wearing strong fragrances or scented lotions and use insect repellents, particularly during peak gnat activity periods.

Are gnats harmful to humans?

Gnats are generally not harmful to humans. However, some species can bite and one of the most common types in Arizona is the biting midge, also known as no-see-ums.

Biting midges are tiny flies that can deliver painful bites. They are most active during dawn and dusk and are often found near bodies of water, such as ponds, lakes or marshy areas. Their bites can be irritating and cause itching, redness and minor swelling. Using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing can help.

If you get bitten, the University of Arizona's Cooperative Extension website says that "over-the-counter topical cortisone creams usually provide relief from itching. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication may be required if there is pain or swelling.”

For more severe reactions, seek medical help.

What does a gnat bite look like?

A gnat bite typically appears as a small, red, itchy bump on the skin, similar to a mosquito bite.

The area around the bite may become swollen and some people may experience mild pain or discomfort. Applying an anti-itch cream or taking an antihistamine can help alleviate symptoms.

How do I get rid of gnats outside fast?

Besides making an apple cider vinegar trap; fixing leaks in outdoor faucets, hoses or sprinklers; and ensuring proper drainage to prevent standing water, using a fan can deter gnats as they are weak fliers.

Planting basil, lavender or mint around outdoor seating areas can help repel gnats. Bug zappers designed to attract and kill gnats, as well as pyrethrin-based sprays, are effective.

Finally, regularly clean up decaying organic matter, such as fallen leaves or fruits, to minimize gnat breeding grounds, according to Orkin.

What months are gnats most active?

In Arizona, the peak gnat activity months are generally from April to October. During these months, the conditions are more favorable for breeding, leading to increased gnat activity.

How long does a gnat infestation last?

In Arizona, the duration of a gnat infestation can vary depending on the species of gnat, environmental conditions and the effectiveness of control measures.

Typically, gnat infestations in Arizona can last from a few days to a few weeks, according to the University of Arizona. However, with proper control and prevention, you can significantly reduce their numbers and eliminate the infestation within a matter of days to a few weeks.

Consistent efforts to remove breeding sites, use traps and maintain cleanliness are crucial for successfully eliminating a gnat infestation.

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This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Why you have so many gnats right now and how to get rid of them