The experts behind the Scottish Midge Forecast are worried that a change in the recent dry spell in the Highlands which has suppressed their numbers could see the fearsome predators come back with a "bang".
Scientists at Dundee-based APS Biocontrol Ltd say the biting pests usually emerge in two (and sometimes in very unlucky summers, three) waves with the first having already appeared in early to mid-June.
However, the second wave has seemingly been delayed by the hot, dry weather in the north, which isn't ideal for the vicious insects to survive, reports the BBC.
A scourge to both tourists and residents alike, the second emergence being delayed and their numbers being kept low is usually good news for tourism businesses across the Highlands.
These floating clouds of misery are regularly considered to be Scotland's most feared predator and if you've ever encountered them you'll know why.
The Highland midge (pronounced Midj-ee) is a tiny insect that belongs to a family of midges known for biting to feed, and as is the case with many species, the female is more deadly than the male. Gathering in large groups the females swarm together and will bite warm-blooded creatures to draw blood.
Which usually sees humans being the targets of their voracious appetite.
It's now hoped the weather won't change allowing them to come back in larger numbers.
A spokesperson for the Scottish Midge Forecast said: "We have had numerous reports of midges being out in high numbers in the north and west but this recent hot, dry weather isn't ideal for adult midge survival.
"Midges prefer it wet and warm so it's likely that the hot but dry conditions will suppress the emergence of adults, but as soon as we get some wetter weather, they'll probably come out with a bang.
"We had the first peak of midges in early to mid-June and normally we'd have the second peak five or six weeks later, but this second peak is probably being delayed by the current conditions.
"I suspect this peak is another three to four weeks away. A bit later than usual."
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