bugs from Lake Powell?
Have you all noticed a small, thin, dark bug with wings on the exterior of your house - moldings, soffits, etc. One of Settlers Mill residents who lives near the head of Lake Powell has had hundreds, if not thousands, of them and he took the initiative to try to find out what they were. The county took samples and sent them to VA Tech (who didn't know what they are) and sent them off to the Smithsonian who identified them. They are Ischnodemus Falicus and they live and feed off of marshy areas. According to the internet they will seek to overwinter in homes and are seen trying to get under siding, molding, etc. Also, it was noted that trying to eliminate them at anything but the source is not very effective. It seems pretty obvious to us that Lake Powell's drainage and marsh growth is the reason for this infestation. The homes with the biggest problem are closest to the Lake though we have observed them throughout the area. Are you all having a similar phenomenon? If so, please let us know. We are trying to talk to the County about a plan of action.
[Picture - late October rains riase the level slightly in Lake Powell]