How to Get Rid of Midges in Ireland: All You Need To Know

Midges are tiny flying insects that are common in Ireland, especially in rural and wet areas. These insects are notorious for their bites, which can be itchy and irritating. If you live in or plan to visit Ireland, especially during the summer months, you might wonder how to deal with these pesky creatures. In this guide, we’ll explore effective ways to get rid of midges and prevent their bites.

---

What Are Midges?

Midges are small flies from the Culicoides family. They are most active in warm, damp conditions and are particularly annoying near lakes, bogs, and wooded areas. Their bites can cause itchy red spots, which can be uncomfortable for days.

---

When Are Midges Most Active?

• Peak Season: May to September
• Peak Hours: Early morning and late evening (especially during calm weather)

---

Table: Common Midges Habitats in Ireland

Location	Why It Attracts Midges
Lakes and rivers	High humidity and stagnant water
Boglands	Damp, wet environment
Forested areas	Shade and moisture
Coastal regions	Calm weather and tidal pools

---

How to Get Rid of Midges

1. Prevent Midges From Entering Your Home

Keeping midges out of your living spaces is the first step in managing them.

• Install Window Screens
  • Use fine mesh screens on windows and doors to block entry.
  • Repair any holes in the screens promptly.
• Keep Lights Dim
  • Midges are attracted to bright lights, especially in the evening. Use dimmer lights or close curtains at dusk.
• Seal Cracks
  • Seal any gaps in windows, doors, or walls to prevent midges from sneaking in.

2. Use Midge Traps

Midge traps can effectively reduce their population.

• UV Light Traps
  • Attract midges with UV light and trap them.
  • Place these traps in areas with high midge activity.
• CO₂ Traps
  • Mimic human breath to attract and capture midges.
  • These are more expensive but very effective.

3. Apply Insect Repellents

Repellents are one of the most effective ways to keep midges off your skin.

• DEET-based Repellents
  • Highly effective against midges.
  • Apply on exposed skin and reapply as needed.
• Natural Alternatives
  • Citronella, eucalyptus oil, and lavender oil can repel midges.

4. Wear Protective Clothing

Reduce exposed skin to minimize bites.

• Long-sleeved Shirts and Pants
  • Wear lightweight but full-coverage clothing in midge-prone areas.
• Head Nets
  • Use a head net when walking in areas with heavy midge populations.

5. Control Midges Outdoors

If midges are a problem in your garden or yard, these tips can help.

• Use Fans
  • Midges struggle to fly in windy conditions. Use fans to create air movement around patios or seating areas.
• Remove Standing Water
  • Eliminate puddles, birdbaths, or stagnant water sources where midges breed.
• Plant Midge-repelling Plants
  • Plants like lavender, marigolds, and citronella can repel midges naturally.

---

DIY Remedies for Midges

1. Homemade Midge Spray
   • Mix water, vinegar, and a few drops of citronella oil in a spray bottle.
   • Spray it around windows, doors, and outdoor seating areas.
2. Candle Traps
   • Place a lit candle in a bowl of water with a few drops of dish soap.
   • Midges are attracted to the light and will drown in the water.

---

How to Avoid Midge Bites

• Plan Outdoor Activities Wisely
  • Avoid outdoor activities during peak midge hours (early morning and late evening).
• Use Nets or Canopies
  • Use midge nets or screened canopies for outdoor events or picnics.
• Choose Campsites Carefully
  • Stay away from bogs, lakes, and other wet areas when camping.

---

Table: Comparison of Insect Repellents

Repellent Type	Effectiveness Against Midges	Advantages	Disadvantages
DEET-based Repellents	Very High	Long-lasting protection	Strong chemical smell
Citronella Oil	Moderate	Natural and eco-friendly	Needs frequent reapplication
Eucalyptus Oil	High	Pleasant smell, natural	Can cause skin irritation
UV Light Traps	High	Effective for large areas	Requires electricity
CO₂ Traps	Very High	Mimics human breath effectively	Expensive

---

Common Myths About Midges

1. Myth: Midges are only active during the day.
   • Truth: Midges are more active during twilight hours.
2. Myth: Midges do not bite through clothing.
   • Truth: They can bite through thin fabrics.
3. Myth: Midges only live in rural areas.
   • Truth: While more common in rural areas, they can also be found in urban gardens.

---

What to Do If You Get Bitten

If you’ve been bitten by midges, here’s how to reduce itching and swelling:

1. Wash the Area
   • Use soap and warm water to clean the bite area.
2. Apply Cold Compress
   • A cold pack or damp cloth can reduce swelling and itching.
3. Use Antihistamines
   • Over-the-counter antihistamines can help with allergic reactions.
4. Apply Anti-itch Creams
   • Calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream can provide relief.

---

Final Thoughts

Getting rid of midges in Ireland can be challenging, but with the right methods, you can significantly reduce their impact on your life. By combining preventative measures, repellents, and outdoor control methods, you can enjoy Ireland’s beautiful scenery without constant bites.

Always remember to plan your outdoor activities carefully and be prepared with the right tools to keep these pesky insects at bay!