Knowledgebase

Knats or small black insects on window screens #429449

Asked October 01, 2017, 12:58 PM EDT

I live in Cottage Grove MN. Every fall we have these little bugs / insects all over our window screens. I would like to know what they are and what to use to eliminate or reduce them. Our lot is heavily wooded with oaks, elms and other variety of trees. Thank You Dave Emmons

Washington County Minnesota

Expert Response

It is difficult to know exactly what insect is on your windows based on your description. If you are able to give more detail about size, shape, wings, no wings and perhaps attach a picture I may be able to identify.
Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied October 05, 2017, 10:51 PM EDT
3 attachments

      Thanks. I took some pictures and looked at these bugs through a magnifying glass. Pictures are in attachments.They do have wings that fold back in a Delta like position. They also have antennae on the front of their heads. They are black in color and are very tiny. I did notice that they do crawl perhaps due to their development state. I also believe they are carnivorous as well.

      The Question Asker Replied October 06, 2017, 11:55 AM EDT
      It is still difficult to tell what these may be. The pictures are not clear. It could be a phroid fly, however, they are typically from inside the house. I have placed a link below with information and photos of phoid flys. You can look at and see if that is what you have. https://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/insects/find/phorid-flies/
      Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied October 08, 2017, 12:33 AM EDT
      Thank You. After doing more research from your suggestion, I found out that they sure look like  CLUSTER FLIES. Dave
      The Question Asker Replied October 08, 2017, 10:32 AM EDT

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