Biting insect - Can't identify or find information

Hello.

I am hoping someone can help me with this mystery. I have looked at pictures, searched the forum, found nothing, maybe I have been using the wrong keywords. I am on Long Island, NY. Suburbs.

Now that the weather is nice, I am outside on my patio every day. Recently, maybe because it is getting hotter, but I keep getting bitten, on my feet, by this tiny bug. I am not great with visual measurement, but I would say it is approximately an eighth of an inch? It is significantly painful considering the size. Did not want to let go, I blew on it, no budging, I had to flick it (I don't like hurting insects, but, it had to come off, but it was fine).

The description:
Black and white, looked like a scale pattern, but not sure if it is actual scales. But an alternating black and white. I don't recall seeing antennas, or a tail, but, it is like a pointed oval. I don't know if it is just my skin being sensitive, but I got tiny water blisters, all near the bite point. Keeps happening, I have to hold my feet up now when I am sitting down.

Any ideas on what it might be, and how to keep them away? A green method is preferred, we have a lot of rabbits, chipmunks, etc. in the yard.

If it happens again, or I see it, I will try to get a photo.

Thanks in advance for any information you can provide!

Best,
A.