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Some gnats can bite humans. The gnats that bite are usually biting midges, also called no-see-ums or sand flies. These tiny flying insects are very small (about 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch long) and can deliver painful, itchy bites.
Most other gnats – like fungus gnats or fruit flies – don't bite. They're just a nuisance. If you're getting bitten, it's likely from biting midges or possibly another small flying pest.
Biting midges are usually found outdoors near water, damp soil, or shaded areas. They're most active at dawn and dusk. If you're getting bitten indoors, they may be coming in through open windows or doors, especially if you live near a pond, marsh, or wooded area.
Other small flying pests that bite, such as black flies and certain types of midges, can also find their way inside.
Female biting midges bite because they need blood to produce eggs. They're attracted to carbon dioxide, body heat, and certain scents humans emit. The bite itself is made with sharp mouthparts that cut the skin, which is why a gnat bite can feel pretty painful.
Bites from biting midges are often small, red, and itchy. They may appear in clusters or lines, especially on exposed areas such as the arms, legs, or neck. The bites can be more painful than mosquito bites and may take longer to heal.
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