Entomology: What insects are these? How do they bred?

Question

I often see,as I walk my dog in open spaces, one or two columns of small seemingly colorless insects flying in some sort of a horizontal circle. These columns seem to be about two meters high and vary in width from about 50 - 80 centimeters. Sometimes I see one column and sometimes I see two columns side by side. You can only notice them If you are walking pretty close and if you do not notice them you can walk right through them . Sometimes they can get up your nose and stick in your throat causing you a long coughing session unless you have some water to drink as soon as you feel the discomfort.

Answer 1

These are small flies, commonly called midges. There are many different species which form these little clouds. They are taking part in courtship behaviour. The clouds are formed of males and females 'dancing', pairing and mating. The unknown thing about these mini-swarms is why they choose a particular place to do this, they are very often found in the same place year after year. Obviously different insects, but using the same place for whatever reason.

Answer 2

http://www.einsteins-emporium.com/life/a...

http://www.whatsthatbug.com/

http://www.insectimages.org/

Answer 3

These are Dipteran.  Very small fly like animals, gnats, no-see-um, midges and flies.  Usually those swarms form when they are mating.  They are harmless, cept for maybe getting in your eyes.

http://www.ca.uky.edu/entomology/entfact...