MIDGE mi'jee: noun. Culicoides Impunctatus small flying biting insect of the family Diptera. Known for their biting, they do not transmit disease and are a favourite food for trout. The midges found in West Scotland are particularly voracious but despite local stories no concrete evidence exists to support claims that they can strip a fully grown adult human to the bone in under 3 minutes.  They can reduce a strong man to tears however in 30 seconds or less.  Insect repellent seems only to attract them whilst making the wearer smell disgusting.

Midge Life Tips: Head east and up hill, keep moving, carry repellent but use sparingly, avoid overcast areas, low boggy ground and especially at dawn / dusk. Midge season peaks July & August (maybe why Edinburgh Festivals are so busy?) but they can be a significant nuisance in June and late May, early September. People deep in the forest working up a sweat will attract millions of them.

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Informative Link http://www.treesforlife.org.uk/tfl.midge.html