They’re Heeeeeere – The Black Flies Return

female Nephila clavipes from Bulow Creek State Park, Florida. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Black flies are the worst of all bugs. I’ve lived in Florida where the spiders are the size of your hand. Seriously, I have seen some enormous spiders in my life. I’ve dealt with cockroaches, palmetto bugs and banana spiders (pictured) and I don’t like any of them, but none of them kept me from being able to go outside.

About a week ago I was outside enjoying our stint of sunny, dry (too dry) weather and sure enough I thought I saw a black fly. They are tiny, but something about the way they fly past your head is unmistakable. Then a few days later as I was watering the tulips I got bitten and they were swarming me like mad. I had to go inside.

So from now until the beginning of June there will be no enjoying the outdoors up here in New Hampshire. I could try riding a bike and move faster than them (if only I wouldn’t have to walk up the hills – ya, right). I won’t be going for walks on the nice days or doing much yard work. I will still take my chances and go outside, but one of my arms already has 5 bites that are swollen and itchy. Ahhhh Spring.