Tiny Outdoor Biters: Thrips Across Four States

Tiny rust/black biters on worn wood in IL, MN, TN, TX = thrips. They feed on plants but bite humans incidentally. Harmless, annoying.

Management

• No effective repellent.
• Avoid sitting on untreated wood.
• DEET may help slightly.
• Populations fluctuate naturally.

Not a infestation—just seasonal presence.