The 'Scottish Midge' and how to deal with it

For something only a few millimetres long, the Scottish midge has managed to acquire quite a reputation. Clouds of biting insects make excellent social media footage, but after many years of guiding in the North Highlands, I’ve rarely seen anything like that and haven’t experienced it myself. Perhaps that’s because I take precautions rather than wait to see what happens. The Highland biting midge is a tiny fly, and only the females bite, although I couldn’t possibly comment on that, of course. They can leave an irritating itch, but knowing a little about their habits makes them much less of a worry.

Before we get out of the car, I’m thinking about where we’re going. At Corrieshalloch Gorge, a beautifully sunny day can still mean midges because we’re heading beneath trees, into shade and shelter near the water. At Wailing Widow Falls, we’re crossing damp peatland, and if there’s no breeze I’m prepared for them there too. They generally prefer still, damp conditions and lower light, which is why mornings and evenings can be particularly inviting to them. Sunshine and a breeze help, but it’s the conditions where you’re actually walking or sitting that count. That sheltered hollow might look like a lovely picnic spot, while somewhere catching a little breeze could prove considerably more comfortable.

If I think we’re likely to encounter midges, I offer guests Smidge before we set off. It’s widely available locally, and I find it useful to remember the bits people easily miss, particularly their ears and the back of the hairline. On the face, it’s applied with the hands, avoiding eyes and lips. I also carry 3M Ultrathon, a DEET-based repellent I use less often when I expect more troublesome conditions. I used to work for 3M, and it’s a product I know and trust. People regularly mention Avon Skin So Soft, but personally I’d rather use a purpose-made insect repellent than rely on a body oil’s reputation for keeping midges away. Whichever repellent you choose, rain or sweating may mean it needs renewing during the day.

Light-coloured long sleeves and trousers can help too, as midges are more attracted to darker clothing, and I carry fine-mesh midge nets that slip over a hat and secure around the neck. Some guests aren’t particularly keen on the look, but they’re a useful option if you’d rather have a barrier around your face. If a few midges do get through, my advice is to resist scratching, because once you start it can be difficult to stop and you may damage the skin. A cool, damp cloth can soothe the irritation, and a pharmacist can help if the itching is troublesome. A repellent and a net take up very little room in your bag, and having them available means you can look forward to the walk rather than worry about what might be waiting for you.