Gnats? Midges? Swarms Of Tiny Bugs Inspire Social Media Banter In Hoboken And Beyond

HOBOKEN, NJ — While Hoboken (like many cities right now) has a rat problem, residents took to social media this week to complain about a smaller nuisance: Gnats.

Insects were spotted swarming the city's waterfront, and landing on people's clothing, they said on Facebook and Twitter on Thursday.

No one was sure whether they were gnats or midges, but they agreed that they were annoying.

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"Hoboken got gnats and rats," wrote @carmedesagun on Twitter.

"Anyone in northern NJ? These little gnats are suddenly everywhere. Any idea what they are, but more importantly, why their sudden appearance? These are the best pictures I could get. Some have a greenish appearance," wrote a woman in a bug identification group this week.

"I know it’s gnat season but it’s like a huge infestation," responded another.

Across the river, Manhattan was apparently turning into Man-gnattan, with people complaining there as well, and even posting videos.

Early summer is the season for gnats and midges that hang around water. But why now, people wondered? Did it have to do with the Canadian wildfires, or the heat?

Gil Bloom, Accredited Certified Entomologist with Standard Pest Management in Astoria, said, "The first heard about it was this morning. They're Aphids. Aphids come in green and black this time of year. They do bread with wings. They feed off plants. They're harmless to us."

Why are they here? "They may have gotten caught in a particular wind pattern. It's just nature doing what it wants. It's not a sign of the apocalypse."

Still annoyed? Not to worry - Charie's Nursery and Garden Center in North Arlington has what you need.

"Summer is here and we all know Mosquitoes and Gnats can ruin a great time outside. So pick up some Ortho Home Defense bottles today to take care of Mosquitoes, Gnats, Flying Insects & more for your indoor and outdoor parties ($9.99)," they wrote on Facebook two weeks ago. "We also have Citronella and Lemon Grass still available for the natural repellent approach!"

Hoboken City Hall representatives said they had gotten no complaints about the aphids.

Have you seen the gnats? Comment below.