The Chironomidae are a large family of small, delicate flies commonly known as non-biting midges. They are found all over the world, with more than 5,000 described species. Although they look a little like mosquitoes, they do not bite and are completely harmless.

Non-biting midges are thin and elongated, with long legs and segmented antennae. In many species, the males have feathery (plumose) antennae, which they use to detect females. These insects are often seen forming large dancing swarms near water in the evening, especially during warm months.

The larvae live mainly in freshwater, including ponds, lakes, and streams, and are sometimes called bloodworms because some species are bright red. This colour comes from a special pigment that helps them survive in water with very little oxygen. The larvae feed on decaying plant material and tiny organisms, playing an important role in keeping waterways healthy and providing food for fish and other wildlife.

Adult midges usually live only a few days, long enough to mate and lay eggs. While their swarms can look alarming, they are a normal and important part of many freshwater environments.

In the UK, non-biting midges are very common, particularly near ponds, lakes, and rivers. They are most often seen in summer, especially at dusk when the males gather in swarms that can shimmer in the fading light.