Bug Eyed Critters

[a.twiddler]

Bug Eyed Critters. Or, the perils of wearing shorts.

I've not been troubled much over the years by insect bites while out riding. Maybe it's because I don't generally wear shorts. However, on a recent ride with the heat and all, I thought I'd live dangerously and get my legs out.

Part of the route passed through Burton Marsh on the Wirral. I was fine before and after but I felt as if I was providing a meals on wheels service as I went through.
A bit itchy at the time, but I didn't get the full benefit until I got home.

It seems the female is the biter, with a good set of saw like mouth parts and hungry for blood to develop her eggs. Can apparently get through denim.

The male, looking all innocent with its big soulful eyes, lives on nectar.

I was more concerned that the last thing it bit before me was probably a sheep. Still, mostly healing now.

 

[Drago]

I get eaten alive by insects, so if Im going anywhere remotely green, even a park or playing field, I trouser up.

 

[Paulus]

The wee flying beasties love me. Insect repellant seems to attract them.
Anthisan cream and antihistamine tablets releive the worst of the itching.

 

[wafter]

That looks painful

I've got a similar one on my lower left leg after last night's ride - swollen, itchy and no doubt contributing to today's histamine-sponsored malaise..

 

[fossyant]

Horse fly bites can be nasty. A friend got bit on a MTB ride and it wasn't looking too nice at the end. Found out he'd had to go to A&E - so keep an eye on it.