Bug stains - Ask Extension
We have lake home close to Alexandria. This past week we have been told there was a flying bug infestation. You couldn't even go outside, looked kinda...
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Bug stains #273935
Asked August 29, 2015, 2:31 PM EDT
We have lake home close to Alexandria. This past week we have been told there was a flying bug infestation. You couldn't even go outside, looked kinda like mayfly/large mosquito. They have left greenish stains all over our vinyl siding. Doesn't come off with soap and power washing. What were they? Any suggestions to get stain off short of insurance claim. We have been here 15 years and have never seen this before
Karen Boehne. <personal data hidden>
Douglas County Minnesota
Expert Response
Hi,
This may well have been mayflies during the mating cycle. In the evenings, they are attracted to buildings by porch lights, etc. I cannot find any research that talks about the stains they leave, but here is info from the U: http://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/insect/general-curiosity-insects/flies/small/mayflies.h...
Have you tried bleach or vinegar on the stains? I don't know what will work if powerwashing didn't!