The term “nat” commonly describes various small, flying insects that often appear around homes and gardens. Many people wonder if these tiny fliers are all types of flies, or if the word refers to something else entirely. This article will clarify the everyday use of “nat” and identify some of the most common insects people associate with this term. Understanding these distinctions helps in identifying and managing these often bothersome creatures.
Defining the Colloquial Term
The word “nat” is a colloquial term, not a scientific classification used by entomologists. It functions as an umbrella term encompassing many different species of small, winged insects. While many of the insects people refer to as “nats” are indeed true flies, belonging to the order Diptera, the term is applied much more broadly. This imprecision highlights its common use in everyday language to describe numerous small, often nuisance, flying insects. Therefore, while a “nat” is almost always a small flying insect, it does not necessarily mean it belongs to a single scientific group.
Common Insects Known as Nats
Among the most frequently encountered insects labeled as “nats” are fungus gnats, fruit flies, and drain flies, each with distinct characteristics. Fungus gnats are slender, dark-bodied insects, typically measuring 1/8 inch in length, and are often mistaken for tiny mosquitoes. They commonly infest the moist soil of houseplants, where their larvae feed on fungi and decaying organic matter. These gnats are a common sight hovering around potted plants, leading many to refer to them as “nats.”
Fruit flies, another common “nat,” are usually tan or yellowish-brown with distinctive red eyes, and are slightly larger than fungus gnats. They are strongly attracted to ripe, fermenting, or decaying fruits and vegetables, as well as spills of sugary liquids. These insects are frequently observed flying in kitchens and pantries, especially near fruit bowls or recycling bins. Their rapid reproduction cycles mean a small infestation can quickly grow, making them a noticeable presence in many homes.
Drain flies, also known as moth flies or sewer flies, possess a fuzzy appearance with short, hairy bodies and wings, giving them a moth-like look. They are typically gray or black and are about 1/16 to 1/4 inch long. These flies thrive in damp environments rich in decaying organic matter, such as the sludge found in drains, sewers, and septic tanks. People often encounter them emerging from sink or shower drains, leading to their common inclusion under the “nat” umbrella.