Lawn gnat identification - Ask Extension
We have recently moved to Prospect, Kentucky and our new yard is swarming with a gnat-type insect I have never seen before. Please see attached photo....
Knowledgebase
Lawn gnat identification #345338
Asked July 21, 2016, 5:41 PM EDT
We have recently moved to Prospect, Kentucky and our new yard is swarming with a gnat-type insect I have never seen before. Please see attached photo. They are not black like fungus gnats, but more yellow-green colored with lacy antennae. They swarm out of the grass, and congregate on doors and windows. If anyone could please help us with identification and control advice, we would really appreciate it. Thanks! Elizabeth
Jefferson County Kentucky
Expert Response
Identification of insects from photos is difficult. For a specific identification bring a couple of the insects, in alcohol, to our office and if we cannot identify them here, we will send them on to the entomology lab at the University of Kentucky.
From the photo,this looks like it may be a mayfly. They are not dangerous, but may be considered a nuisance . If the area has a stream or lake, especially in wet areas these insects can congregate. You can find out more about mayflies here:
http://www.uky.edu/Ag/CritterFiles/casefile/insects/mayflies/mayflies.htm#mayfly
Feel free to contact our office if you have other questions.
Let me know if I can help you further!
Carol Wilder
Horticulture Technician
Jefferson County Cooperative Extension Service
<personal data hidden>
810 Barret Ave
Louisville KY 40204
