Are the little flying shivs about yet?

Nah, it's still deepest winter up here in places. Haven't seen any about yet, although I'll more than likely be proven wrong by suggesting it.

Just did a wee tent putting up trial and there were a few about in my back garden..... hopefully OK up north but I think I may put the smidge in anyway

They're about in the west, at least as far up as Arrochar. Stay in the wind, keep out (or keep moving in) the trees and you'll be grand