If you’re planning a trip to the Isle of Skye, or anywhere in the Scottish Highlands during the warmer months, you might have heard people talking about midges, and wondered what they are.
They’re not mythical creatures or the subject of local folklore, though we wish they were! They’re real, they bite, and they can be surprisingly annoying if you’re not prepared.
However, don’t let that deter you!
Below, you can find out what midges actually are, when and where you’re likely to encounter them, and most importantly, how to deal with them so you can still enjoy your Scottish adventure.
What Are Midges?
Midges (scientific name: Culicoides impunctatus) are tiny, flying insects, smaller than mosquitoes, that emerge in swarms and bite exposed skin. They’re native to Scotland, and while they’re not dangerous, their bites can cause itchy, red bumps and irritation, especially if you’re unlucky enough to walk through a cloud of them.
They do affect some people more than others, and unfortunately, if you’ve never encountered them before, you won’t know how badly you react until you do!
Midges go by different names in other parts of the world. If you’re from Australia or New Zealand, you might know them as sandflies, which are similar to but not exactly the same.
In parts of North America, similar insects might be referred to as no-see-ums, biting gnats, or punkies.
In Scotland, we call them midges (midg-ees), and if you’re here in summer, they’ll likely make an appearance.
When Are Midges a Problem?
Midges are seasonal, so you’ll mostly find them from late May to early September, with the peak in June, July, and August.
But here’s the good news: they’re picky about the weather.
Conditions midges love:
- Warm (but not hot), humid days
- Overcast skies
- Still air (no wind)
- Early morning and evening (especially around dawn and dusk)
Conditions midges hate:
- Bright sunlight
- Wind (even a gentle breeze)
- Rain
- Cold temperatures
That means if it’s a windy, rainy day (not uncommon on Skye!), you’re actually less likely to encounter them. On sunny days with a breeze, you might not see any at all.
How to Avoid or Handle Midges
You don’t need to cancel your holiday or hide indoors all summer. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy the outdoors, even during midge season.
1. Check the Midge Forecast
Yes, this is a real thing! The Scottish Midge Forecast (www.midgeforecast.co.uk) provides daily updates on midge levels across the Highlands and Islands, including the Isle of Skye.
2. Wear the Right Clothing
- Cover up with long sleeves and trousers, especially early in the morning or shaded, damp areas.
- Light colours are better than dark—midges seem to be more attracted to dark clothing.
3. Use Insect Repellent
There are a few favourites that locals and visitors swear by:
- Smidge – A midge-specific repellent developed in Scotland. It’s DEET-free and works well.
- Avon Skin So Soft (Original) – Although not originally designed as an insect repellent, it’s surprisingly effective and has a cult following in Scotland. Make sure you pick up the original formula. It stops them from landing on your skin rather than actually repelling them in any way.
- Jungle Formula – Offers high-strength protection, especially if you’re sensitive to bites.
You can find these in most local shops and petrol stations in Skye.
4. Time Your Walks and Activities
Avoid lingering in still, shady areas, especially at dawn and dusk.
Ideally, you would plan walks for the middle of the day, but this is also when some of the most popular places in Skye are at their peak busyness, so you may need to balance the two. Check the forecast!
5. If You Get Caught in a Swarm
- Don’t panic, but don’t stand still!
- Keep walking, they’re slow fliers and struggle to keep up.
- Head inside, get in your car, or find a breezy spot if possible.
- If you’re camping, consider having a midge-proof mesh head net in case the bugs are particularly bad, and keep your tents zipped shut.
Midges are part of the experience of summer in the Highlands, much like the occasional rain shower or a curious sheep in the road. Yes, they’re a nuisance, but they’re not the end of the world.
With a bit of preparation, you can avoid them at their worst or know what to do if you encounter them!
Sonja x
