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Old 30-04-2007, 08:50 PM posted to rec.ponds.moderated
Davy Davy is offline
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First recorded activity by GardenBanter: Jul 2006
Posts: 75
Default What are small black insects flying over pond?


"kthirtya" wrote in message
ups.com...
Sounds like the ubiquitous gnat.

Apparently there are 300 odd species in the UK.
-http://www.gardensafari.net/english/mosquitoes.htm

This is a good bit of information about the lowly gnat ~
Large mating swarms of adults often appear about dusk and may occur for

several days, especially after a prolonged wet period. Many gnats are
attracted to light and may be a nuisance, landing on people or entering
homes or businesses. These tiny flies do not feed. They only live long
enough to mate, lay eggs, and die. Eggs are laid in masses in the water or
on aquatic vegetation. The life cycle usually takes about 4 to 5 weeks.
There may be several generations during the summer but these insects usually
disappear with the onset of dry weather. Fortunately, problems are usually
temporary and intermittent.
from USA page http://www.uky.edu/Ag/Entomology/ent...ruct/ef632.htm

k :-)


But if gnats, why were they hunting over the surface?

Davy