Ticks in Ontario
A Guide to Prevention and Protection
Springtime in Ontario is a time of renewed energy and excitement for nature enthusiasts. However, it's important to be aware of the potential risks that come with being outdoors, particularly the threat of ticks. As a nature photographer, I'm often low to the ground, hiking through tall grass or brush, which puts me at an increased risk for tick bites.
So, what exactly are ticks? Ticks are arachnids that can be found in wooded areas, tall grass, and shrubs. In Ontario, there are two types of ticks that we should be aware of: the blacklegged tick and the American dog tick. The blacklegged tick, also known as the deer tick, is the primary carrier of Lyme disease in the province.
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, fever, and a characteristic bull's-eye rash. In severe cases, Lyme disease can lead to neurological damage and even death.
To avoid tick bites, there are several precautions you can take. First, be sure to wear long pants and sleeves when hiking or spending time in wooded areas. Tucking your pants into your socks can also help prevent ticks from crawling up your legs. Use insect repellent with DEET and check your clothing and body for ticks frequently, paying particular attention to warm, moist areas such as the armpits, groin, behind the knee, and scalp.
If you do find a tick on your body, don't panic. Use tweezers to grip the tick as close to your skin as possible and pull it straight out, this is to ensure the head does not remove from the body. Be sure to clean the bite site with rubbing alcohol or soap and water. If you experience any symptoms of Lyme disease, such as a rash or fever, seek medical attention right away.
Don't let ticks ruin your enjoyment of the great outdoors this spring. By taking a few simple precautions and knowing what to do in case of a tick bite, you can stay safe and enjoy all that nature has to offer.
I hope you all stay safe!
Until the next post
-Greg