Arkansas is one of the most rewarding states to explore outdoors — from the Ozark highlands to the Delta wetlands — but the moment you step outside, you share that space with some genuinely aggressive insects. Biting flies in Arkansas are not just a nuisance; several species draw blood, trigger allergic reactions, and in some cases transmit disease. Whether you’re hiking a trail in the Ouachitas, fishing a river bottom, or working livestock on a farm, knowing which fly is after you makes all the difference in how you respond.
Arkansas’s warm, humid climate and diverse landscape create ideal breeding conditions for a wide range of biting flies throughout the spring, summer, and fall months. Some species swarm in enormous numbers during peak season, while others hunt solo and deliver a surprisingly painful bite.
This guide breaks down all seven of the most common biting flies you’ll encounter across the Natural State, covering what they look like, when and where they’re most active, and exactly what you can do to protect yourself and your animals.
1. Black Fly
If you’ve spent time near fast-moving streams in Arkansas during late spring, you’ve almost certainly crossed paths with the black fly (Simulium venustum). Known locally as buffalo gnats, these tiny, hump-backed flies are among the most notorious biting insects in the state. They’re small — typically 1 to 3 millimeters long — but they make up for their size in sheer numbers. Black fly swarms can be so dense that they’re visible from a distance, and their bites leave behind itchy, swollen welts that can persist for days…