What areas of Scotland have midges?
Where do midges live in Scotland? The greatest numbers of midges are to be found in the West Highlands. They tend to live close to their food source, cattle, below 1,500 feet. The east coast of Scotland is relatively free of midges.
What time of year do midges come out in Scotland?
When is midge season in Scotland? Typically May until September. Midges begin to emerge during May (usually mid-late May).
Do midges in Scotland bite?
They’re most prevalent in spring to late summer, and the Highland Midge can be found in Scotland as well as other parts of the UK. Female midges are the ones that travel in swarms and bite people, because they need protein, found in blood, in order to produce eggs. They also bite cattle and deer.
How do I stop midges biting me in Scotland?
Anti-midges protection The best way to avoid being bitten by midges is to cover up your bare skin at times when they are most likely to be around. If it’s a still, humid morning or evening, wear long-sleeved tops and trousers. A midge net made for your head can be a useful addition to your outdoors kit list.
Is there anywhere in Scotland without midges?
In the Inverness and Loch Ness area, most places by the coast and along Loch Ness are pretty much midge free, but in other places like Glen Affric you are more likely to encounter them.
Are there more midges this year 2021?
The 2021 Season Just like previous years, this year saw even larger numbers of midges than usual. We estimate midge numbers were up around 20% on last year and even more on previous years. July and August were particularly bad for midges with the warm spring and continuing good weather throughout the summer.
Where in Scotland is midge free?
What is the best thing to keep midges away?
10 Top Tips on Avoiding Midges, Wasps & Insects While Camping
- Have a campfire.
- Stay away from standing water.
- Keep tent doors closed.
- Insect repellent.
- Use essential oils and aromatherapy.
- Wear an impregnated wristband.
- Throw a bunch of sage on the campfire.
- Burn citronella candles.
What is the best Scottish midge repellent?
#1. Smidge That Midge – Recommended midge repellent.
Are midges bad all over Scotland?
Will they spoil your enjoyment of the Scottish Highlands? Yes, they can be a serious nuisance – though you’d have to be bitten by 20 million midges simultaneously for their bites to be fatal!