If you’ve lived in Manatee County long enough, you know that fall brings more than pumpkin spice lattes and slightly cooler mornings—it also marks the seasonal return of midges, those tiny, cloud-like insects that seem to appear out of nowhere.
What Are These Midges, Anyway?
Often mistaken for mosquitoes, non-biting midges are actually harmless. They don’t bite, sting, or transmit diseases. What they do well, however, is swarm, especially near water. With Manatee County’s ponds, lakes, mangroves, retention basins, and wetlands, it’s basically a luxury resort for them.
Why Fall Brings an Explosion of Midges
Fall in Manatee County is a transitional period. After months of heavy summer rain, the wetlands are full, nutrient-rich, and warm—ideal conditions for midge larvae. As temperatures dip slightly and humidity remains steady, the larvae mature, and suddenly…
Poof!
Evening skies shimmer with swarms of midges that dance in little spirals over driveways, lawns, and waterfronts.
Tips for Coexisting with Fall Midges
Use warm-colored outdoor lighting (they’re less attracted to amber bulbs).
Keep windows/doors screened—obvious, but lifesaving.
Skip the bug spray—they don't bite, so it's not needed.
Pressure wash surfaces after peak swarms to prevent staining.
Minimize standing water around your home (though county wetlands will always be midge magnets).
Fall Vibes… and Fluttering Tribes
Ultimately, midges are just part of the seasonal rhythm in Manatee County. They arrive with the first hints of fall and fade once winter pushes temperatures a bit lower. Until then, we’re sharing our sunsets with a few extra silhouettes in the sky.