Navigating Scotland’s Midge Season: Tips for Travellers and Hikers

Travellers and outdoor enthusiasts know Scotland’s midge season, usually running from May to September, to be terrible. Particularly active under calm, humid conditions at dawn and dusk are midges, little biting insects. Although they are most often seen in the Western Highland, islands, and Cairngorms, midges can ruin your outdoor plans over most of Scotland. But worry not; there are sensible strategies to deal with these “wee beasties” and still enjoy your trip.

What Are Midges?

AttributeDetails
Scientific NameCulicoides impunctatus
Common NameHighland Midges
Size1-3mm
Activity PeriodMay–September, most active in July and August
HabitatDamp, marshy areas; low-altitude vegetation
Attracted ByCarbon dioxide (CO2), human breath, and body heat
Primary CulpritFemale midges; they bite to gain protein for egg production

Midges are tiny, grey insects that often go unnoticed until they swarm in large numbers. Unlike mosquitoes, midges don’t buzz, but their bites can leave itchy, red welts.

Where and when are midges most likely active?

Hot Areas

  • Western Highlands: Glen Coe, Fort William, and the Great Glen
  • Islands: Isle of Skye and the Hebrides
  • Argyll and Perthshire: Areas near lochs and rivers

Peak Days

  • Months: The worse are July and August.
  • Conditions: humid still days at dawn and dusk.
  • Weather Impact: Midge activity is greatly reduced by wind speeds above 5 mph.

How to Prevent Midges

Select the Correct Location

  • Head for windy areas like coastal regions or higher altitudes above 700m.
  • Steer clear of marshy, moist, or very vegetative areas at busiest times.

Time of Your Activities

  • Plan walks or outdoor events at noon when midges are least active.
  • Unless you are well-prepared, stay indoors during dawn and dusk.

Essential Gear for Midge Season

ItemPurpose
Insect RepellentUse products like Smidge or Avon Skin So Soft to deter bites.
Midge NetA head net tucked into your top protects your face and neck.
Light-Coloured ClothingMidges are less attracted to whites and light greys.
Long Sleeves & TrousersCovering skin makes it harder for midges to bite through.
Portable FanCreates airflow to keep midges away.

Common Repellents and Therapies

Slides Midge Repellent

  • 20% Picaridin content, good for up to 8 hours.
  • Safe and non-toxic for kids and pregnant ladies.

DEET-Based Goods and Services

  • Strength available in 25%, 50%, and 100% concentrations.
  • Though rough on skin, effective. Take sparingly.

Natural Substitutes

  • Ideal for families, DEET-free and environmentally friendly beastie be gone.
  • Though mixed outcomes, citronella is worth trying if you want natural remedies.

Home Remedies

  • For a classic midge repellant, apply bog myrtle to clothes or caps.
  • Eating marmite or garlic could make you less appealing to midges (anecdotal evidence).

Additional Techniques for Adventures Without Midge-Freezing

Campfire Smell

  • Lighting a campfire can drive midges away, although be sure you follow fire safety rules.

Mide Forecast

  • Check activity levels before leaving using the Smidge Midge Forecast.

Remain Active

  • Keep on the road. More often than not, midges swarm immobile prey.

Interior Safety

  • If you are indoors, use fly screens or close windows during periods of highest activity.

Managing Midge Bite Problems

You might still get bit even with preparation. Here’s how you handle it:

  • To ease itching, dab antihistamine lotions, tea tree oil, or calamine lotion.
  • Steer clear of itching; it might cause an infection.
  • For fast relief, cool the impacted region using ice packs.

Why You Should Not Allow Midges to Stop You

Although the midge season in Scotland sounds intimidating, it is rather controllable with some preparation and the correct equipment. Every amount of planning is well worth the amazing scenery, historic attractions, and outdoor experiences of this nation.

Navigating Scotland’s midge season pays a nominal cost for the beauty and memories that await whether your trip is trekking up Ben Nevis, seeing the Isle of Skye, or lounging by Loch Ness.

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