Are Those Mosquitoes… or Something Else?

Posted by Mosquito Squad

March 30, 2026

Are Those Mosquitoes… or Something Else?

Understanding Non-Biting Midges in Southeast Wyoming

If you’ve been noticing small, mosquito-like insects around your home lately, you’re not alone. Many homeowners across Southeast Wyoming have been calling us with the same concern:

“Why are there mosquitoes this early?”

Here’s the reality:
They’re usually not mosquitoes—but there are a few important exceptions.

What Are You Actually Seeing?

In most cases right now, what you’re seeing are non-biting midges—a harmless (but sometimes annoying) insect that closely resembles a mosquito.

These insects:

Look very similar to mosquitoes
Swarm in large numbers
Are often found near water
Do not bite

That last point is key.

Could They Still Be Mosquitoes?

There is a small possibility that you could be seeing an occasional mosquito, especially during stretches of warmer weather.

However, it’s important to understand:

Mosquitoes require consistently warm temperatures to hatch, survive, and thrive.

In Southeast Wyoming, early-season conditions are typically:

Too cold at night
Too inconsistent day-to-day
Not ideal for sustained mosquito activity

So while a stray mosquito isn’t impossible, large swarms this time of year are almost always midges—not mosquitoes.

The Only Way to Know for Sure

If you want to be certain, the best thing you can do is:

Catch one of the insects
Take a close photo
Or even send it to us for identification at 307-417-6701

At Mosquito Squad of Southeast Wyoming, we’re happy to help confirm exactly what you’re dealing with so you can make the right decision for your property.

👉 You can also learn more about our approach to pest identification and treatment on our Mosquito Control Services page.
👉 Ready to get answers fast? Visit our Contact Page to send us a photo or request a consultation.

Midges vs. Mosquitoes: What’s the Difference?

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Biting:

Mosquitoes bite
Midges do not

Swarming Behavior:

Midges gather in large clouds
Mosquitoes tend to be more isolated

Seasonal Activity:

Midges can appear in cooler conditions
Mosquitoes need sustained warmth

Why Midges Matter (Especially for Fly Fishing)

Believe it or not, these insects play a major role in Wyoming’s outdoor ecosystem.

Midges are:

A primary food source for trout, especially in winter months
A go-to hatch for fly fishermen
One of the most commonly imitated insects in fly patterns

If you fish local waters, you already know:
When midges are active, trout are feeding.

When Midges Become a Problem

Even though they don’t bite, midges can still be frustrating when:

They swarm around your home
They collect on siding, doors, and windows
They’re drawn to porch lights and entryways
They make it hard to enjoy your yard

For many homeowners, it’s not about bites—it’s about volume and nuisance.

Can Mosquito Squad Help?

Yes—we can.

Even though these aren’t mosquitoes, our treatments can still help reduce midge populations around your home.

Our barrier treatments:

Target areas where insects rest and gather
Help break up swarm activity
Make your outdoor spaces more enjoyable

👉 Learn more about how we protect homes locally on our Mosquito Control Services page.

Don’t Guess—Know What You’re Dealing With

If you’re seeing “mosquitoes” earlier than expected, there’s a good chance they’re actually midges—but it’s always worth confirming.

Catch one. Take a photo. Send it to us.

We’ll help you identify it and recommend the right next step.

👉 Have questions? Reach out through our Contact Page today.

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Mosquito & Pest FAQs

Are these mosquitoes or something else?

In most cases, the mosquito-like insects people are seeing in Southeast Wyoming right now are non-biting midges, not mosquitoes. They look very similar but do not bite. However, during short periods of warmer weather, there is a small chance you could see an occasional mosquito. The best way to know for sure is to catch one or have it identified.

Do non-biting midges bite humans?

No. Non-biting midges do not bite and do not feed on blood like mosquitoes do. They are harmless to people and pets, though they can become a nuisance when they appear in large swarms.

Why do midges look like mosquitoes?

Midges and mosquitoes share similar physical traits, including long legs and narrow bodies. This resemblance often causes confusion, especially when midges appear in large numbers around homes, water sources, or outdoor lighting.

Why are there so many mosquito-like bugs right now?

Large swarms of mosquito-like insects in early spring or cooler weather are typically midge hatches, not mosquito outbreaks. Midges can emerge in cooler conditions, while mosquitoes require consistent, sustained warm temperatures to thrive.

Can mosquitoes be active this early in Wyoming?

It is possible, but unlikely in large numbers. Mosquitoes need warmer nighttime temperatures and stable conditions to reproduce and survive. A few may appear during warm spells, but widespread activity this early is uncommon.

How can I tell the difference between midges and mosquitoes?

The easiest way to tell is by behavior and impact. Mosquitoes bite, while midges do not. Midges also tend to swarm in clouds, while mosquitoes are more isolated. For a definitive answer, you can capture one and have it identified.

Are midges harmful to humans or pets?

Most of the midges you’re seeing in Southeast Wyoming are non-biting midges, which are not harmful to humans or pets and do not transmit diseases. They are primarily a nuisance due to their large numbers.

However, it’s worth noting that not all midges are harmless. There are some species of biting midges (often called “no-see-ums”) that can bite and, in certain cases, impact wildlife.

That said, the swarming insects most homeowners are currently seeing around their homes are almost always non-biting midges, not the biting variety.

If you’re unsure, Mosquito Squad of Southeast Wyoming can help identify what you’re dealing with and recommend the right solution.

Why are midges important for fishing in Wyoming?

Midges are one of the most important food sources for trout, especially during colder months. They are a staple in the diet of fish and are widely imitated in fly fishing patterns year-round.

Can Mosquito Squad treat non-biting midges?

Yes. While midges do not bite, Mosquito Squad of Southeast Wyoming can treat and reduce midge populations using barrier treatments that target areas where they rest and gather.

What should I do if I am not sure what bugs I have?

If you are unsure, catch a sample, take a clear photo, or send it to Mosquito Squad of Southeast Wyoming for identification. Getting the correct identification helps you choose the right solution.