Question
For as long as I can remember, I have been bitten by a tiny insect while outside.  They are so tiny that in order to find them I look where I felt the bite first then scan my skin around the area to see if I can find the culprit.  I seem to be bitten more when sitting on unfinished or worn wood, but I also experience bites at other times when I am outside.  The bites are not bothersome after the initial pain; they leave no red mark or bump.   The insects can be either a rust color or black.  I've lived in IL, MN, TN, and TX and have experienced them in all locations during the hot summer months.  Can you give me a name for this pesky little critter?  Thanks.

Answer
Susan,

These are probably thrips (see http://www.livingwithbugs.com/thrips.html for a picture). These tiny insects feed on plants but will occasionally bite people as well. The bites are harmless but annoying.

Jack DeAngelis
http://www.livingwithbugs.com