What Are Those Bugs?

[Anni8]

I have been hiking up the tram for 3 years and never encountered bites until this Summer. They don't seem to mind all the organic bug repellent. You can feel them when they bite (ouch) and the itch is indescribable.

Does anybody know what they are? I think I saw what looked like a small black flying insect when I swatted at it. I know gnats don't bite and they aren't mosquitoes. Always behind the knee too

[Ellen]

Howdy

Biting flies

And yes, their bites itch like mad. I have scratched myself to the point of bleeding, which increases the time the bites take to heal as well as the risk of infection.

I hate DEET but it seems to be the only deterrent

For treatment, I recommend Bite MD made by Cutter -- antiseptic and analgesic. The ingredients (Benzocaine, Camphor, Phenol) decrease the awful itching

Disclosure -- I have no financial affiliation with makers of DEET or Bite MD.

Miles of smiles,
Ellen

[Anni8]

Thank you Ellen. So, the organic stuff isn't going to cut it? I hate using chemicals but if I want to hike up there this Summer, I see no other way. Again, thank you!