When I first planned my trip to the stunning landscapes of Scotland, I had visions of castles, lochs, and sprawling green hills. What I didn’t expect was to encounter millions of tiny, blood-thirsty monsters—better known as midges. Trust me, knowing how to deal with midges can save your Scottish adventure from turning into a bite-filled nightmare.
Picture this: you’re standing in the beautiful Scottish Highlands, ready to snap a breathtaking picture, and suddenly you’re covered in swarms of these pesky critters.
Luckily, there are a few tricks to keep them at bay. Using insect repellents that contain DEET or picaridin is a good start, but wearing long-sleeved shirts and light-colored clothing can make a big difference too.
I’ve learned the hard way that these little rascals are most active at dawn and dusk, thriving in damp and mild conditions.
So if you’re planning an outdoor adventure, try to schedule your activities for mid-day. And whatever you do, avoid those dark outfits—midges seem to love them!
Unmasking the Highland Nemesis
Midges are tiny insects that can make a big impact on your trip to Scotland. Understanding their habits and when they’re most active can help you avoid their bites and enjoy your adventure.
A Brief Overview of Midges
Midges are small, flying insects found in the Scottish Highlands. Specifically, the Highland midge is notorious for biting. Only the females bite, feasting on blood to nourish their eggs. These tiny vampires are particularly prevalent on the west coast of Scotland due to the perfect conditions of mild temperatures and moist environments.
Midges are most active during dawn and dusk. They’re so small you might not notice them at first, but you’ll certainly feel their bites later. A fun fact (or not-so-fun, depending on your perspective) is that only half the midge population actually bites. The males, bless them, prefer flowers.
Midge Season Mayhem
The peak season for midges typically runs from late spring to early autumn, so plan accordingly. The west of Scotland is especially notorious. If you’re heading to the Scottish Highlands during this period, be prepared for swarms of these little pests. Early mornings and late evenings are prime times for midge bites when the air is still and damp.
One quirky yet effective tip is to check the midge forecast. Yes, that’s a thing! Windy days can be a relief because midges can’t fly well in breezy conditions. A wind speed of just 8 km/h can scatter them.
Your Battle Gear
When it comes to surviving midges in Scotland, the right clothing and effective repellents are key. Here, I’ll share my top tips on dressing smartly and choosing the best repellents to keep those pesky critters at bay.
Choosing the Right Clothing
Let’s talk about my personal midge armor. I always wear long-sleeved shirts, long trousers, and socks. Trust me, covering as much skin as possible is crucial. I opt for light-colored clothes because midges are attracted to dark colors.
On my head, I use a midge net that covers my face and neck. Wearing a sun hat under the net helps keep it less claustrophobic. The net is a lifesaver at dawn and dusk when midges are most active.
Comfort is crucial. So, lightweight, breathable fabrics are my go-to. They keep me comfortable without compromising on midge protection. Even in rainy Scotland, this setup means fewer bites and more enjoyable adventures.
The Repellent Arsenal
Now, onto my repellent arsenal. I swear by insect repellents containing DEET or picaridin. These are super effective at keeping midges from landing.
When I prefer a DEET-free option, Smidge is my choice. Jungle Formula is another great alternative if you’re looking for a high-strength spray.
For a more natural approach, I sometimes use repellents with citronella or tea tree oil. Though they might not be as strong, they smell way better.
Avon Skin So Soft is a surprising and popular choice among locals. It’s not marketed as a repellent, but it works wonders.
I even keep a roll-on repellent handy—Beastie Be Gone is one worth checking out.
Remember to apply your chosen repellent liberally on exposed skin and around the neckline and cuffs of your clothing for maximum protection. It’s all about making sure those midges don’t stand a chance!
Tactical Movements
When dealing with midges in Scotland, you have to be smart about when and where you venture out. Proper timing and understanding the landscape can make all the difference in avoiding these pesky insects.
Timing Your Outdoor Adventures
The best way to avoid midges is to plan your activities around their schedule. Midges are like party animals who love to come out at dawn and dusk. Avoid these times if you don’t want to be their next meal.
Walking, hiking, and camping during midday is your best bet. Midges hate the strong sun, so enjoying a picnic during the sunny part of the day will keep them at bay. If you’re into running or adventurous treks, aim for mid-morning or late afternoon.
Weather also plays a big role. They flock to mild, damp conditions, like those often found in the Western Highlands. A sudden rain shower can bring them out in droves. So, wait for dry spells or lightly breezy days. The wind is your friend because midges can’t fly well in it.
Navigating the Landscape
Scotland’s landscapes are beautiful, but some places are midge hotspots. Forests, woodlands, and moorlands are their favorite hangouts. When hiking in these areas, make sure to dress wisely. Long sleeves, trousers, and socks are your best protective gear. Light-colored clothing can also help, as midges are more attracted to dark colors.
If you’re planning a trip to places like Ben Nevis or the Great Glen, try sticking to open spaces or exposed ridges. Midges don’t like being out in the open and prefer sheltered areas.
Camping in windy spots is a good idea. A slight breeze can save you from a midge attack. Position your tent away from water sources like lakes and streams, which are prime breeding grounds for these insects.
In regions like Torridon, you can sometimes find shelter that midges avoid. Look for places with good sunlight exposure and minimal vegetation. This way, you can enjoy your trip without constantly swatting away these annoying bugs.
The High Ground Advantage
Hiking to higher elevations in Scotland not only offers stunning views but also a secret weapon against those pesky midges.
Understanding Weather Warfare
Up in the highlands, weather conditions play a major role. The higher you climb, the cooler it gets. Midges, those tiny terrors, hate the cold. So, you’re less likely to get swarmed by them when you’re up high.
Damp and humid areas are prime real estate for midges. They thrive in these conditions. But as you ascend, the air becomes less humid, and the environment gets too harsh for these insects to handle.
Direct sunlight can also help. Midges avoid the sun, preferring to lurk in shady, moist places. Therefore, when I’m up on the high ground, I always try to stick to sunny, open spaces to reduce my chances of encountering these bugs.
The Wind: An Unseen Ally
One of the best things about being on higher ground is the wind. Even a gentle breeze can irritate midges and blow them off course. If I’m caught in a midge cloud, finding a windy spot can be a game-changer.
Wind speeds of just 8 km/h can scatter these pests. In the higher elevations, wind is a more frequent companion. It’s like having an invisible shield around me that keeps the midges at bay.
I also keep an eye on the weather forecast. If strong winds are predicted, it’s a green light for my highland adventures. Checking a midge forecast map can be another useful tool in my survival kit against these relentless biters.
Surviving the Swarm
Getting swarmed by midges in Scotland can be a real test of endurance. I’ll guide you on what to do when midges attack and how to treat those annoying bites.
When Midges Attack
When midges swarm, it’s like being caught in an unexpected rainstorm but worse—because it’s raining bugs. These tiny, blood-sucking critters are relentless, especially at dawn and dusk.
First, seek shelter. If there’s a breeze, move into it because midges can’t handle even a slight wind. No breeze? Then head indoors or into your tent.
Light-colored clothing can help (midges love dark colors), and repellents with DEET or picaridin are your best friends.
Avoid standing water, where midges breed. And, if possible, keep moving; midges struggle to land on a moving target. Follow these tips, and you might just outsmart these bug bullies.
Midge Battle First Aid
If you’ve already become a midge’s lunch, don’t worry. There’s a plan for that too.
First, resist the urge to scratch. I know, it’s like trying not to laugh at a funny joke, but scratching can make the bites worse and potentially lead to infection.
Clean the bites with soap and water to avoid inflammation. Apply an antihistamine cream to reduce itching and swelling.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help if the bites are really bothering you.
Another good trick is to use a cool compress. Just chill a cloth in cold water and hold it against the itchy, red bumps. Your skin will thank you later, as this can reduce itching and inflammation.
Allies and Other Curiosities
Let’s talk about the friends and foes you’ll encounter when dealing with midges in Scotland. From helpful plants to relentless horseflies, there’s more to these tiny terrorizers than meets the eye.
Flora and Fauna Allies
Some plants and animals can help us outsmart midges. For example, dragonflies are like flying midge vacuum cleaners. These guys love munching on midges and other nasty insects like mosquitoes. So, cheer them on when you see them darting around!
Lavender and eucalyptus can also be your friends. They smell amazing to us but not so much to midges. Plant these around your campsite or carry essential oils to keep midges away. It’s like having a natural barrier against these bites-with-wings.
Birds such as swallows and bats are nature’s exterminators. They love snacking on midges and mosquitoes, keeping the skies safer for us. If you see these creatures, know that they’re working hard for you. Plus, they give a nice show while at it.
The Lesser-Known Beasties
Alongside midges, you’ll find other pesky creatures.
Ticks are a big one, and they aren’t just annoying. They can carry Lyme disease, so always check your clothes and skin after a walk in the woods.
And let’s not forget horseflies. These guys aren’t picky and will bite anything that moves.
Unlike midges, horseflies are much bigger and pack a painful punch.
Midges like Ceratopogonidae are a big family with many members.
Eggs laid near water sources become larvae that need protein, often from us.
Both males and females are around, but it’s the ladies that bite—they need the protein for breeding.
So, while battling midges, be aware of these other critters.
Knowing what you’re against makes it easier to plan your next steps—like which plant to pack or which dragonfly to befriend!