Ah, the Isle of Mull a breathtaking Scottish gem with rugged coastlines, majestic eagles, and… oh yes, the dreaded midge. These minuscule menaces may be smaller than a grain of sand, but they have the collective power to turn a peaceful hike into a frantic slap dance. If you’ve ever visited Mull between May and September, you’ll know that midges don’t just bite they haunt.
1. Meet the Mull Midge: Nature’s Tiny Tormentor
The Highland midge (Culicoides impunctatus, if you want to get fancy) is a tiny flying insect with a Napoleon complex. Measuring just 1 to 2mm, these wee beasties travel in swarms so thick they’ve been known to make grown adults weep and cause tourists to question their life choices. They love still, damp days and are most active when the wind speed is below 7mph.
The Science of the Bite: Only the females bite. They need a blood meal to provide nutrients for their eggs. They are attracted to the carbon dioxide you breathe out, your body heat, and the “human smell” of your sweat. Once one finds you, she releases a pheromone to call all her friends to the party.
2. Advanced Tactics: How to Avoid Becoming a Midge Buffet
1. Timing and Weather Forecasting:
Midge activity peaks at dawn and dusk. However, on overcast or “muggy” days, they may stay active all day. Before you head out, check the Scottish Midge Forecast online. It uses a scale of 1 (negligible) to 5 (nuisance level) to help you plan your walks. If the forecast is a 5, stick to the coastal paths where the Atlantic breeze is strongest.
2. Dress Like a Beekeeper (But Make It Fashion):
- Midge Nets The ultimate face saving accessory. Ensure you buy a “midge” net specifically, as standard mosquito nets have mesh that is too large to stop these tiny invaders.
- Lightweight, Long Sleeved Clothing Choose fabrics with a tight weave. Midges cannot bite through denim or thick canvas, but they can easily navigate through loose knit cotton.
- Seal the Gaps: Tuck your trousers into your socks and your shirt into your trousers. It looks ridiculous, but it prevents them from crawling up your legs.
- Light Coloured Clothing: Stick to whites and tans. Dark colours attract them as they are basically the goths of the insect world.
This item is a Best Seller and one that you won't want to be without during the summer and whilst on holiday. The oil is totally dry and does not leave any marks or smudges on your clothes. It helps soften your skin and is best applied after a bath or shower whilst the skin is slightly damp as this locks in the moisture. There is a very pleasant woody smell and the oil is clear. If you want a fresh 'just stepped out of the shower' smell this is pretty close. It contains citronella which is a lemon smell and which helps to repel insects.
3. The Repellent Arsenal:
- Avon Skin So Soft This legendary dry oil spray contains citronellol. While not a licensed repellent, it creates a physical barrier on the skin that midges find difficult to land on.
- Smidge This is the gold standard for many locals. It contains Picaridin, which is DEET free, water resistant, and provides up to 8 hours of protection without damaging your plastic gear.
- DEET Sprays Use these with caution. They are incredibly effective but can melt watch straps, synthetic clothing, and camera casings.
3. What to Do If You Get Bitten
Despite your best efforts, a few of those wee beasties might get through. If you find yourself covered in itchy red bumps, don’t panic. The key is to reduce the inflammation as quickly as possible.
- Don’t Scratch: It sounds impossible, but scratching can break the skin and lead to infection.
- Antihistamines: Over the counter antihistamine tablets or creams can significantly reduce the itching and swelling.
- Cool the Area: A cold compress or an ice pack can provide immediate relief. Local “after bite” pens containing ammonia are also effective if used immediately after the bite occurs.
- Witch Hazel or Aloe Vera: These natural remedies are excellent for soothing the skin and reducing redness.
4. Midge Proofing Your Accommodation
If you are camping or staying in a self catering cottage, your indoor environment matters too. Midges are tiny enough to crawl through standard window screens. Keep windows closed during the “witching hours” of dusk and dawn unless you have a fine midge mesh installed. If you are camping, a portable fan in your tent can be a lifesaver, as midges cannot fly in air currents faster than a few miles per hour.
5. Bonus: Midge Myths Debunked
- “Eating Marmite keeps them away.” Sadly, no. The theory is that Vitamin B changes your scent, but scientific studies haven’t backed this up.
- “Whisky repels midges.” Drinking it won’t help your skin, though it might help you care less about the itching.
- “Citronella candles are enough.” In a heavy swarm, a single candle is like bringing a toothpick to a gunfight. Use midge coils for better results.
6. Final Thoughts: Embrace the Battle
The midge may be Mull’s most persistent resident, but they shouldn’t stop you from exploring our beautiful island. With a bit of preparation, the right repellent, and a well timed breeze, you can outsmart the swarm. Every midge bite is just a wee Scottish souvenir to remember your trip by.
You may also want to check out our guide on Horse Flies (Clegs) another unfortunate downside on the Isle of Mull.
