Question
mystery insect
I live in central Oklahoma and we have a tiny bug that is swarming the yard, deck, and gravel driveway. The ground looks like it is moving because there are so many. I thought they were maybe a gnat, but they are a little bigger than your avaerage gnat. I smashed one on my arm, and imediately smelled a weird odor. They seem to be mating (end to end). They are dark bodied, with light colored wings, 6 legs, 2 antenna off the face. They will fly, but seem to just run from you rather than just fly off. We have about a 1/2 acre front yard and the grass (which is still about half dormant)is covered. My kids are playing in a water sprinkler in the back yard and their legs keep getting covered with the little bugs. Most of them are 1/8 of an inch and a few big ones are 1/4 inch. Thanks for any info in identifing this insect, and what to do about it!
AnswerMisti,
These are true bugs in the order Hemiptera. I can't see the image clearly enough to be certain but from your description I'd guess one of the grass bugs/chinch bugs (see http://www.livingwithbugs.com/chinch_bug.html and google grass bug or chinch bug). Since populations tend to build from spring through summer the large numbers you are seeing now might indicate coming problems in grass and small grains from this insect this summer. They are harmless except for damage to grass and small grains. Soapy water delivered with a hose-end sprayer is the best treatment for large areas. Post a follow up if you have questions.
Jack DeAngelis
http://www.livingwithbugs.com
