Ultrasonics

Ultrasonic devices have been used for a while now to protect homes from larger pests such as cockroaches and spiders. Some companies are now marketing these devices for midge control.

The theory behind ultrasonic pest control is simple. The device constantly emits a sound that is inaudible to humans but uncomfortable to pests. They do not necessarily "hear" the sound, but because of their small size they "feel" it. The sound effectively produces a "bad neighbourhood" and they go somewhere else.

Some of these devices have been sold for mosquito control and it is variations these that some people are now marketing for midge deterrence. It's important to note that the devices will not prevent midges from biting, the idea is simply that they persuade the insects to go somewhere else!

You can buy a variety of ultrasonic pest controllers, from room size models to small units to clip onto the belt or even smaller bands to be worn around the wrist. They are usually battery run.

Do They Work?

There's some controversy as to whether these devices actually work as a midge deterrent. Some people have even doubted their efficacy to control any insects.

Manufacturers often claim they have evidence that the devices are effective against pests, others claim that tests have shown no significant benefit from their use. There doesn't seem to be any definitive scientific evidence easily available.

The anecdotal evidence is mixed. Some people say they work, others say that they seem to make no difference at all. I've never tried one myself.

So It seems that the jury is still out on the effectiveness of ultrasonics against all pests, not just midges. That said, these units are usally inexpensive so you might want to consider buying one "just in case". If you do decide to try ultrasonics you might like to use this in conjunction with some barrier cream or other proven defence against any midges that do get through.

(Note: Because some of these devices were designed originally for driving off "larger" pests than midges, they might be harmful to small pets such as mice and gerbils. And tarantulas.)

Teenagers

Veering totally off topic... whether or not ultra sonic devices work on midges, they are apparently effective against teenagers! You can now buy a special sonic teenager deterrent which makes a noise at a frequency teenagers find annoying but which us "less young" people can't hear!