Dance Flies or Gnats? Swarming Insects Over Grass—Capture for ID

Clouds of tiny flies over lawn = gnats or dance flies (Empididae). Males form "leks" (swarms) to attract females; some bring prey as nuptial gifts.

ID Help

Capture some, take to Extension (404-897-6261). Experts (Horton, Guillebeau) lean toward dance flies.

Male dance flies offering dinner = primitive courtship. Entomologist humor.

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