Midges emerge in Northwoods

Joining the warmer weather, insects have started to emerge, and among them are various species of midges. The short-lived midges swarm along our lakes and provide an important food source for the rest of the environment.

The larvae are raised in the water, and as the water temperature rises, they hatch into adults that now buzz around our many bodies of water. 

Midges are different than mayflies. Unlike mayflies, which live 1-2 days on average, midges can live up to 10 or more. They are also smaller than their May counterpart, measuring roughly the size of a mosquito. 

Mayflies will appear later in the year, and have noteable characteristics like upright wings and long distinguishable tails that split into two thread-like appendages. 

Midges lack a distinguishing tail feature, and often tend to scatter and swarm while mayflies perch on surfaces, often covering siding or boats. Male midges of most species have feathery antennae to detect mates. 

Midges will continue to hatch likely through the beginning and middle of June, and will appear again in the fall. 

At the beginning of the food chain, midges are an important food source for fish and birds, especially as young birds start to hatch. 

There are many different species of midges, most of which are non-biting. However, there are several that do bite, like the no-see-ums that will show up this summer. 

Blake Richard may be reached via email at [email protected].