Spring is finally showing up in Eastern Ontario, and that means we're all itching to get back into the bush. But there's one thing that comes with the warmer weather that we need to talk about — ticks. I know, not the most glamorous campfire topic. But as a dad who's spent a LOT of time in Larose Forest and along the South Nation, I've learned that a little knowledge goes a long way. So let's break it down — practical, no-panic, real-world stuff you can use on your next outing. ✅ 🔍 Know Your Enemy: What Are We Dealing With? In Eastern Ontario, the two ticks you're most likely to encounter are: Blacklegged Tick (Deer Tick) — the one that can carry Lyme disease. Small, dark, and sneaky. Nymphs (baby ticks) are about the size of a poppy seed. American Dog Tick — bigger, easier to spot, and less likely to carry Lyme. Still not a welcome hitchhiker! Peak season: April through November, with the highest risk in spring and early fall when nymphs are active. They love tall grass, leaf litter, forest edges, and brushy areas — basically everywhere we love to be. 😅 🧥 Before You Head Out: Prevention First The best tick bite is the one that never happens. Here's how we prep: Cover up — long sleeves, long pants, closed-toe shoes. Tuck pants into socks (yes, it looks dorky; yes, it works 😄). Light-coloured clothing — makes ticks way easier to spot. Tick repellent — DEET (20–30%) or Icaridin on skin and clothing. For gear and clothing, permethrin spray is a game-changer (apply at home, let dry before wearing). Stick to the trail — ticks hang out on vegetation waiting to latch on (called "questing"). Staying on cleared paths reduces contact. Brief the kids — even young ones can learn to avoid brushing through tall grass and to do a tick check when they get back to the trailhead. 🔎 The Tick Check: Make It a Habit After every outing, do a full-body tick check — on yourself, your kids, and your pets. Ticks love to hide in: 🦵 Behind the knees 👂 Around the ears and hairline

Same spot. Here is a fisher