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Obviously this isn't a great photo, but it is the best I could do under the circumstances. This swarm of very small flies had maybe 50 individuals in it, flying around in a big circle.

Despite the lack of detail and sharpness, can anyone name the family?

I wish I could have found one perched on a leaf, but I couldn't.

Location: Near the Ohio River, West Virginia, USA. Date: 3 June 2007. Size of each fly: very small.

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I'd suggest Chironomidae - interesting to see how the front legs are held up and over the antennae!

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Yes, I meant to ask what the white areas in front of the eyes were! You're right, that is interesting. They were flying so fast, perhaps, the wind speed helped hold their legs in that position! I thought the very large eyes were interesting too.

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The eyes are not very big - I think you're confusing the plumose antennae with the eyes. ;) Have a look at Andre's first picture -
http://www.dipter...post_30237
It will help to interpret the images you took.

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Wow! I wouldn't have thought those big areas could be antennae, but after looking at Andre's profile image, I am convinced. Thanks, Tony!

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If they are Chironomidae, they are probably Ablabesmyia considering the banded legs.

I saw Ablebesmyia cf. peleensis swarming around a tree.