You’re enjoying your backyard when suddenly… itchy red bumps appear. But was it a mosquito? A gnat? A no-see-um?
If you live in Maryland or Central Virginia, you’ve probably encountered all three — and they can be frustratingly similar. However, knowing the difference is key to effective pest control.
Let’s break down mosquitoes vs. gnats vs. no-see-ums, how to identify them, and how Mosquito Sheriff can help you eliminate them and reclaim your yard.
🦟 Mosquitoes: The Classic Culprit
What They Look Like:
Mosquitoes are slender flying insects with long legs and a needle-like proboscis. They’re most active at dawn and dusk.
What Their Bites Feel Like:
Mosquito bites are raised, round, and very itchy, often appearing minutes after the bite.
Health Risks:
Mosquitoes can transmit diseases like:
West Nile Virus
Zika Virus
Eastern Equine Encephalitis
Heartworm in pets
When They’re Active:
Spring through fall — especially after heavy rain.
🔗 Learn more about mosquito-borne diseases from the CDC »
🪰 Gnats: Small but Annoying
What They Look Like:
Gnats are tiny, black or gray flies. Some bite (biting midges), while others are just annoying swarmers.
What Their Bites Feel Like:
Some species, like buffalo gnats, bite and leave painful red welts. Others don’t bite but still swarm your face.
Where They Live:
Often found near damp soil, potted plants, compost piles, and areas with decaying organic matter.
When They’re Active:
Spring and summer, especially after rainfall or in high humidity.
🦟 No-See-Ums (Biting Midges): Almost Invisible, Extremely Itchy
What They Look Like:
Tiny flies — almost microscopic. You often won’t see them, but you’ll definitely feel their bite.
What Their Bites Feel Like:
Bites are intensely itchy, often leaving small red bumps or clusters. Some people develop allergic reactions.
Where They Hide:
They breed in wet, marshy areas, especially along the coast and near wooded backyards — common in Maryland and Virginia.
When They’re Active:
Warm, humid months — early morning and dusk.
🔗 Learn more from the University of Florida’s entomology department »
🛡️ How Mosquito Sheriff Can Help
Whether you’re dealing with mosquitoes, gnats, or no-see-ums, Mosquito Sheriff offers targeted, eco-friendly pest control that tackles all three.
✅ What We Do:
Property inspections to find breeding grounds
Barrier sprays that protect for up to 21 days
All-natural treatments safe for kids, pets, and pollinators
Recurring service plans for season-long protection
We serve homeowners across Maryland, Central Virginia, and surrounding areas, helping families enjoy their outdoor spaces — without the bites.
🔁 Quick Comparison Chart
| Insect | Size | Bite Reaction | Active Time | Health Risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mosquito | Medium | Red, itchy bump | Dusk/Dawn | High |
| Gnat | Small | Painful welt or none | Daytime | Low |
| No-See-Um | Tiny | Clustered itchy bumps | Morning/Dusk | Moderate |
🧼 Preventative Tips
Eliminate standing water (gutters, birdbaths, plant trays)
Install fine mesh screens on windows/doors
Use outdoor fans (no-see-ums hate wind)
Keep grass trimmed and mulch dry
Get professional treatments from Mosquito Sheriff
📞 Stop the Biting Today
Tired of scratching? Let Mosquito Sheriff take care of your biting bug problems with natural, reliable solutions that actually work.
👉 Request a free estimate today »