It was nice while it lasted. But as the weather continues to get warmer, I’ve noticed a growing number of small creatures gathering. It’s coming on blackfly season.
It’s not a long time frame. Just a few weeks that they are sent to test our willingness to enjoy the outdoors. And it will often depend on the time of day. If we get a warm day, the little guys seem to enjoy a mid day siesta, only to return as the temperature cools in the evening.
From what I have read, many blackfly species need running water to breed. Unlike mosquitoes, which prefer stagnant water. So as things dry up as we move toward summer, maybe that’s why their numbers decrease. But there are several different types, and they don’t all seem to like the same things.
Blackflies also seem to like to hang around in large numbers. I have come across clouds of them thick enough that it becomes difficult to breathe. Although as I was told on many a fishing trip when I was younger, it’s just a little extra protein.
But they are annoying. That is probably the worst thing about them. They may bite, but the itch fades fairly quickly. And they’re small, so they don’t eat much. Still nice to avoid being nibbled on though. And I have yet to figure how, if they like running water, so many of them suddenly appear as soon as you start digging in the garden.
There are many ways to deal with them. Bug jackets, bug hats, various different chemicals and potions. Or you can just hide indoors until late June. There is also the age old smudge fire. Some people will burn citrus peals. The drink holder provided by many fast food places also seems to work. I’ve seen a few people standing around with a double double in one hand while fanning themselves with a smoldering drink tray in the other.
I happen to be a big fan of Deet. It will not only keep the blackflies at bay, but if you include you lower legs, it can help keep ticks away as well. I know not everyone is a fan of chemicals, but I find they work for me.
Sure, there is the annoyance factor of having a cloud of bugs around you, but you get used to it. And they’ll be gone before too long.