Real Talk!

There are over 1800 known species of black flies (of which 11 are extinct) and about 100 of those species live in Canada. Related to mosquitoes, adult female black flies feed by painlessly ripping open your skin and sucking up pools of blood- the itchy, bloody and sore after-effect is most uncomfortable. The males nosh primarily on nectar- male black flies are credited with pollinating blue berries.

Black flies are small (1-5mm) and usually black or gray with a humped thorax, short legs and antennae. They have a delighful habit of travelling in swarms and are particularly fierce in this area, from about Mid-May until June- then they tone down some.

Since the Canadian Shield has such an abundance of lakes and fast-flowing streams, it provides perfect conditions for the reproductive, egg-laying practice of these little biters, who sometimes make it impossible to enjoy outdoor activities. (That is why I highly recommend screened porches or gazebos).

The total eradication of black flies really isn’t feasible but you can greatly reduce the harassment by cutting back on toiletries and cosmetics, shampoos and soaps that are perfumed. Similarly, it would appear that light coloured clothing is less attractive to black flies. Opt for looser-fitting clothes, with tight sleeves, zippered closures and tuck your pant legs into your socks or boots- a bandana around your neck will help to keep them out of your shirt.

Specialized bug-jackets etc. are available and they work, but they can be warm. Deet repellents can be of some relief, as are citronella candles and oil (be sure to read all of the instructions for the safe use of these products).

Black flies congregate in wooded areas and still air. They can cause havoc with animals, too. They seem to prefer the early morning, late afternoon-early evening or when storm clouds roll in and they aren’t as virilant in the blazing sun. It seems that black flies are afraid of the dark and they go home, shortly after the streelights come on.

Throughout the summer, the population of black flies declines. It seems that a few, really hot days in a row will wipe most of them out. I’ve been told to watch and when their little legs start to turn white, you can bet that you’ll be black fly free in short order.

Many an experienced local will place a couple of oscillating fans out on their porch- to keep the nuisances at bay. Some install bat houses and bird houses- bats, dragonflies and some birds are the natural predators of black flies.

The good news is: there is only one generation of black flies per year and a lively black fly population is proof of unpolluted water! Something to think about, as you sit out on your screened deck and enjoy a dish of freshly picked blueberries.