Midges are often called sandflies but not every sandfly is a midge. Sandfly is a common name for a number of types of small biting insects. They can be very irritating and can often bite resulting in scratching to the point of bleeding. There biting behavior is very characteristic.

Even thou they are very small insects with a wing span of around .95mm, they often can be seen hovering at eye level. Favoured biting sites are the ears and along the hairline, and also on the hands and feet. Flyscreens are no match for these insects because they are so small and will fly through them. They are not known to carry any diseases or parasites that effect humans.

Here is some great information from Brisbane City Council on controlling biting Midges.

Biting Midges Brisbane City Council information