In 2002 there were reports of an outbreak of biting by blackflies during August at Kingsbury Water Park on the River Tame, and also from Nuneaton and Warmley. As far as I know, the species was never properly identified, but was probably Simulium lineatum and/or S. variegatum.
I don't know whether this is an annual event, but the County Council were taking measures to reduce the nuisance. You should report any such ocurrances to them.
The good news is - The presence of blackflies breeding in rivers is an indication of good water quality!

Dear sir
I'm glad I found your site.
I am a gardener and fisherman in warwickshire in the uk and have been bitten by these flies on numerous occasions over the last few years.Infact just today I was bitten 3 times whilst trimming a hedge!They seem prolific around the river thame.Is it important to report them and if so to who?

Many thanks

Steven

Dear Sir,
I am an entomologist from Nigeria. I worked with Dr. Post of the NHM & LSHTM during my M.Sc.
I am interested in joining your group. Please tell me what it entails. Is it open to entomologists from Africa?
I find the materials on your site very interesting and would not hesitate to join you if I am eligible.
Loooking forward to hearing from you.
Truly yours,
Emmanuel Onyenwe.

Write any comments, suggestions or questions about blackflies in general or about these web pages in the space below by clicking on -- Add Contribution -- below.