Where are the most midges in Scotland?

Where are the midge hotspots Scotland? The west of the Highlands, islands and parts of the Cairngorms. They are also found in Perthshire and Argyll.



The highest concentration of midges in Scotland is overwhelmingly found in the West Highlands and the Inner Hebrides. These tiny, biting insects thrive in damp, boggy, and windless conditions, making areas like Glencoe, Fort William, the Isle of Skye, and Loch Lomond notorious hotspots during the peak season from June to August. Specifically, the "Midge Forecast" often shows the highest activity in sheltered glens where the lack of wind allows them to swarm easily. Conversely, you will find far fewer midges in the more urbanized East (such as Edinburgh or St Andrews), on exposed coastal cliffs where the sea breeze is strong, or at very high altitudes where the air is too thin and windy for them to navigate. Travelers are often advised to visit the West in the "shoulder" months of May or September to avoid the worst of the swarms.

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From May until September, travelers have a high chance of running into midges, especially in the Highlands. These flying, biting insects prefer wet, humid, and cloudy conditions and come out in full force in July and August. To avoid the midges, book your trip to Scotland between late September and early May.

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In theory yes, they prefer darker colours - because their prey is dark in colour. They are least attracted to white and bright colours. That's the theory at least, most people I know say it doesn't make a jot of difference in practice but it certainly can't hurt to take extra precautions.

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The best way to prevent midge bites is to wear EPA-registered insect repellent, especially if you're wearing clothes that expose large areas of skin. Biting midges can't bite through clothes, but they can get underneath them. When enjoying outdoor activities, like hiking, it's best to wear long sleeves or pants.

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25% strength should offer about 5 hours midge repellent of protection. If you'd prefer not to use DEET, Avon Skin so Soft is an effective alternative. Whilst DEET works to block midge antennal receptors (meaning they can't smell you), Avon Skin so Soft works because once the midges land on you they ain't coming off.

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Another piece of wisdom to avoid midge bites is to never wear dark coloured clothing. Yes, we all love to wear black as it goes with literally everything, but midges are more attracted to dark coloured clothing.

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Although they are averse to strong sunshine, huge numbers are being reported, particularly in Glasgow and the West of Scotland in the early morning and evenings.

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