With the weather finally beginning to rise above 50 degrees, Carls are emerging from their dens, ready to embark on their first Arb walks, bench sits, and picnic blanket lounges in months. But beware! Another organism finds this to be the most opportune time to be active, too – ticks. Ticks are small parasitic arachnids that feed on animal blood and can carry disease. Luckily, it’s easy to become informed and be safe so you can proceed enthusiastically on your outdoor adventures. 

The Arb has two kinds of ticks active during the warmer months of April-October. They climb to the top of grasses, extend their limbs, and attach to whatever brushes against them. Wood/Dog ticks (Dermacentor viriabilis) are the slightly larger species and are not considered dangerous. Deer ticks (Ixodes scapularis) are smaller, 2-3mm long black arachnids known to carry Lyme disease, human anaplasmosis and babesiosis. It, however, takes 24 hours post-bite for a tick-borne disease to be transmitted to you. 

Immediately after leaving the Arb, you should check your entire body, especially crevices like your neck, hair and ankles. 

So, you have a tick on you. Now what? Use tweezers to grab the tick as close to its mouth or head as possible, pulling straight outwards from your skin. Then, wash the area with soap and water. Take a photo of the tick as evidence in case you develop unusual symptoms post-bite. 

Ticks are a common part of most natural spaces, but it’s easy to stay safe. Even if it’s a hot day, if you’re in any grassy or forested area, wear long pants and sleeves. Breathable, thin and long layers are best. Even better, tuck your pant legs into your socks to impress your friends with your snazzy sock designs. Spraying repellent containing pyrethrum on socks, pants and shoes also goes a long way. Happy hiking!