Thrips (sometimes called Thunderflies or Thunderbugs)

Widely distributed on plants, flowers, and in agricultural fields; they often hitchhike indoors on clothing or pets, especially during warm, humid weather.

Mostly herbivores that feed by puncturing plants and sucking out the contents (sap and juices); some species are predators or feed on fungi.

They are weak fliers but can be carried long distances by wind. They are often attracted to light colors and can swarm in large numbers during certain weather conditions (thunderstorms).

While harmless to humans, they can occasionally bite, causing minor irritation or a 'prickly' sensation. They are major agricultural pests, damaging crops and spreading plant viruses, although some predatory species are used for biological pest control.