Baltic Amber Biting Midge

Description: This amber piece displays an example of the Diptera. Biting Midges are also known as Punkies. Modern-day examples are called No-See-Ums due to their minute size. They pack a powerful bite, however, and can be quite pesky. The term Diptera means “two-winged” and is actually a misnomer. Most members have a second, vestigial pair of wings that are mere knobs which are used as a “gyroscope” to keep the insect level in flight.