Which insect is responsible for the nasty bites you can get in English woodland.

[Flyinghippy]

Whenever I spend time in English woodland (which is often) I get bitten by some insect or other. The bites come up in large, itchy lumps which can last for a couple of weeks. I believe I have seen the beastie responsible and it looks like a mozzie, only much larger. You sometimes see them floating towards you, especially at dusk and dawn. I've done a bit of research and discovered that you do get mozzie's in England, but I don't think that's what these are. I've searched for 'UK biting insects', which brings back mozzies, gnats, midges, horse flies and ticks. I dont think any of these are what I've encountered. Does anyone have any ideas?

[WendyS]

I think mosquitos can come in various sizes and you can definitely get them in England. They especially like swampy land and congregate around water but in fact they can be found almost anywhere. Some people seem to real targets and the only thing you can do if you tend to be a victim is make sure all your expose skin is covered with some kind of repellant cream. Mosquito bites can easily turn septic so they should not be ignored.

[clair3934]

Sounds like a horse fly They are hrrible i was bitten by one 2 weeks ago and it took ages to go and it itched like mad but you will never know when it's biteing you you will only feel the after effects

[Flyinghippy]

Hmmm, thanks for your answers. They've promted me to have another look on the net and I now believe the insects I'm reffering to are indeed mosquitos. They are much bigger than the ones you get aboad, but look just like them. Definatley not horseflies as they are quite recognisable from their large compound eyes.