Ah, spring at Lake Wallenpaupack. The days get longer, the water warms up, and—yep, the bugs arrive. Specifically, those swarms of tiny flying things that suddenly appear like a cloud over the lake. Locals often call them mayflies, but they’re actually non-biting midges, also known as lake flies.
Good news: they don’t bite. Less good news: they show up in big numbers and love to hang around for a few days. Typically, they disappear within 3–5 days—but they’ll be back next year, thanks to all that springtime mating.
So… What Are Lake Flies?
These little guys, also called chironomids or “blind mosquitoes,” look a lot like the real thing but don’t sting, suck, or bother you beyond just being a little annoying. What they do is support the lake’s entire ecosystem.
Their larvae live in the lakebed and help break down organic matter—essentially keeping things clean and feeding the fish we all love. Their brief adult life is mostly about reproduction, which is what creates those dramatic dancing swarms each spring.
Are They a Nuisance? Yes. Are They Important? Also Yes.
Lake flies are a sign of a healthy ecosystem. The Lake Wallenpaupack Watershed District monitors them closely, as their presence tells us that the water is clean and balanced.
Still, no one wants to host a cloud of bugs at their barbecue. Luckily, there are a few things you can do:
- Cut the lights. Midges love porch lights. Try switching to yellow bulbs or turning them off during peak swarming hours.
- Go green with your bug defense. Certain plants help deter pests naturally. Bonus: they’re pretty and smell great!
Natural Plants That Repel Insects
Add these to pots or garden beds around your patio for a bug-repelling boost:
- Lemongrass, marigolds, citronella, lavender, rosemary
- Basil (great for flies and mosquitoes)
- Mint (keep in pots—it spreads fast)
- Catnip (strong mosquito repellent)
- Bee balm (draws pollinators, deters skeeters)
These plants offer a chemical-free, eco-friendly way to enjoy your yard and protect our local ecosystem at the same time.
The Bottom Line
Yes, lake flies are annoying. But they’re also part of what makes Lake Wallenpaupack such a thriving, beautiful place. A healthy midge population means clean water, happy fish, and a vibrant environment.
So next time you find yourself in a mini cloud of bugs, take a deep breath (through your nose), give them a few days, and remember—they’re doing their part. And hey, at least it’s not snowing.
Looking for a lake house? Screened porches are pretty appealing right about now. 👉 I’d love to help you find your perfect place on the lake.
Contact me and let’s get started!