Learn what to expect when entering a forest, methods of tick identification, ways to avoid tick bites, as well as information on Lyme Disease.

Imagine the most dangerous things in the forest. Initially, you may think of big predators such as bears or perhaps a pack of wolves. These fears are certainly valid; however, focusing on these predators may cause you to ignore a more inconspicuous danger: ticks! Some ticks are the size of a sesame seed and thus are easily overlooked. Despite their small size, they can be one of the most dangerous creatures to encounter in the forest. Tick bites can lead to a multitude of diseases, such as Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. These typically cause fever, headache, chills, and muscle aches, or worse. Tick ranges continue to expand in the United States; now is the time to educate yourself about these detrimental pests.

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