Midge Identification & Characteristics: Learn About These Tiny Flies

A midge is a tiny, non-biting fly that resembles a mosquito. Although they are harmless, they are drawn to light and can swarm in annoyingly large numbers.

Size

• Midges typically range in size from 1 mm to 10 mm, although some males can grow to as long as 13 mm.

Wings and Antennae

• A midge's wings are long and narrow, but they do not have the scales found on mosquitoes. Male midges have long, feathery antennae.

Habitat

• Midges can be found all over the world, including Antarctica. They are prevalent in much of North America. They prefer living near bodies of freshwater and other damp areas.

Larvae

• Midge larvae are mostly aquatic, but they also can be found in moist ground, in decaying material and under bark.

What They Eat

• The larvae are scavengers and predators of other small invertebrates. Once they reach maturity, they no longer eat.

What Eats Them

• Aquatic midge larvae are a big part of the diets of many aquatic animals, especially freshwater fish. Shorebirds also feed on midges.