Is it true that the midges (tint biting insects) are attracted to the Co2 in your breath?

Question

Thats what I hear and today I was attacked by a whole load of the little F***ers!!!!

If its not that then what is it?why do they follow you?

Answer 1

Most biting insects (mosquitoes, midges, horseflies, etc.) are indeed attracted to the CO2 in your breath.

It's not the only cue they follow though, they can also be attracted by your body heat, the smell of the lactic acid and sweat you exude, dark colours, and perfumed scents (they normally feed on nectar from flowers, and use blood as a protein source for building eggs).

If there are none of these other cues to follow, they are attracted to light (especially UV light).

The most effective mosquito monitoring traps use CO2 to draw the little biters in - you can easily collect thousands of them in a single night in heavily infested areas.

Answer 2

Very true my friend.  They are attracted to the CO2 in your breath and the CO2 that is also released from "other" parts of  your body.  Bright colors or colors resembling "lights" and certain "smells" or "colognes" also do the trick and make them go "crazy".  

I actually tried one of those "stupid" bands that you wear on your wrist...don't waste your money...it didn't work.  I cannot use most of the other bug "sprays" and lotions because of my asthma.  So....I use citronella candles and a lot of them.  I bought a HUGE bug zapper and adore the sound of them being ZAPPED!!!  

Peace & Love :)