You can also choose to go for a 'stronger' alternative to Smidge with DEET. DEET comes in different strengths - 25% (the standard), 50%, and 100%. Whilst we're not scientists (far from it) and aren't offering an opinion, just note that there have been worries about DEET being carcinogenic so probably best not to bathe in it.

Due to their tiny jaw-span, midges aren't very adept at biting through clothing. It's a good idea to opt for full-length trousers and long-sleeved tops. Your very own midge trap. Keep materials lightweight and breathable if you're hiking in the summer. Get up highEach application lasts for up to 8 hours. Re-application may be required in areas with high temperature and humidity. Cover exposed skin– midges have short mouth parts so can’t bite through material although they will crawl under clothes.

Much of DEET’s bad rep, we would say, is due to a general disinclination towards using chemical products right now, which isn’t helped by its unpleasant smell. We’ve included all-natural alternatives below, but if you really want to keep mosquitoes away, DEET remains the best choice.October, November, December, January, February, and March (early autumn and early spring) are usually midge free months in Scotland because the weather is too cold for them...but it may be chilly for you too! HOW TO DEAL WITH THE SCOTTISH MIDGE? DEET-free: contains 20% Picaridn (also known as Saltidin), recommended by WHO, Health Protection Scotland and Public Health England for effective biting-insect protection Calm, windless days and dull days are likely to be more midgey– midges stop flying in wind speeds greater than about 6mph. Midges (also called gnats) are tiny flying insects and the Highland midge (Culicoides Impunctatus) is the one that causes issues, particularly in Western Scotland and the Highlands.

Sometimes though you just won't have an option and you'll have to grab your midge repellent and get out there whatever the forecast. In that case, use the tools and tactics in this guide to do your best to keep things from getting out of hand. OTHER SCOTTISH BEASTIES TO BE AWARE OF… Or midgies ( mi-jees), as they're known in Scotland (although just as often you'll hear them referred to as ‘wee beasties'). But these bloodthirsty little buggers don't need to ruin your trip. We've put together the ultimate guide to midges in Scotland: what they are, where they are, and most importantly – how to get rid of the notorious Scottish Midge. WHERE ARE THE MIDGES IN SCOTLAND? Don’t worry too much about the midges in Scotland and don’t let them put you off visiting this beautiful country. Midge bites don’t irritate me as much as mosquito or cleg (horse fly) bites and as midges don’t transmit disease to humans, I’m more relaxed about midges. We generally find it’s too windy for midgies most of the time anyway! When you go out and it isn’t that windy, carry a couple of different natural insect repellents and a midge hood and hopefully, you should be fine. verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{

Don’t use products with strong perfumes as these can attract midges (eg. deodorant, shampoo, soap, perfume, shower gel, etc.) Lifesystems also have a product formulated especially for midges which contains myrtle extract and DEET. If you’re being bitten by midges, then your friends and family probably are too. Why not help them out by sharing this post with them using the simple share buttons? Although midges, clegs and the like might be a nuisance, they definitely shouldn't put you off exploring the rugged wilderness that is the Scottish Highlands. Trust us – the views of misty Loch Katrine from the rugged Ben A'an are more than worth a midge bite or two. The male midge usually emerges in early May. Shortly after the females join the party. They then get it on and then the male midge dies... ah, nature.