A Look at Common Northwest Insects
Being in the Pacific Northwest is wonderful in the summer, when
campers and hikers can relax in the cool shade of pine trees, listen to
the sound of a trickling creek and enjoy the aroma of wild blackberries.
What isn't wonderful, however, are the insects you encounter.
Prepare
yourself for the dangerous insects you may encounter while hiking or
camping in the Northwest with this guide to common outdoor pests:
Stinging Offenders: Bees and Wasps
Unless
you're allergic to their bite or sting, bees and wasps are more
annoying than they are dangerous. Good hiking safety practices include
taking care around flowering flora, dead or hollow trees, and garbage
cans. Do not tamper with hives or nests, as this may provoke bees and
wasps to attack.
Avoid leaving food out in the open, as this will
attract wasps. Some campers have found that laying out anti-static dryer
sheets on a picnic table helps keep wasps away.
Itchy Offenders: Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are the insect people find most bothersome. Not only do their bites cause itching, but mosquitoes can transmit the West Nile virus. Wear a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt and pants, especially if you're in an area famous for its pests.
Insect repellant is a must.
Prevent bites to your hands and face by applying an insect repellant
that's safe to use all over your body. Avoid areas with still water,
such as ponds or small lakes.
Eight-Legged Offenders: Arachnids
While
most of the Northwest's spiders are harmless, there are a couple of
species to be aware of: the black widow and the brown recluse.
The black widow
is recognizable by its black, glossy look and bulbous abdomen. The
underside of its belly has an hourglass shape that's can range from red
to orange or white. The black widow is a highly venomous spider - you'll
instantly know if you are bitten by one.
The brown recluse
spider is gray, brown or dark yellow in color. The top part of its body
is bisected by a black line, giving the spider the appearance of a
small violin. Although the brown recluse is shy, its bite can cause
necrosis. It can take a couple of hours to feel the effects of this
spider's bite.
Prevention is the best protection against spiders.
One good camping safety practice is to use an LED flashlight when
looking for items in the dark. Wear thick gloves when going through
brush, collecting firewood or looking under rocks. Carefully examine
your shoes and clothes before putting them on.
Blood-Sucking Offenders: Ticks
Ticks
are nasty creatures that mostly live in trees. When these parasites see
potential host, they jump on and bury their heads into the skin. Ticks
can carry lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
The best
chemical defense against ticks is an insect repellent containing DEET.
In wooded areas, wear a hat, a long-sleeved shirt tucked into pants, and
long pants tucked into socks or boots.
Sunday, October 14, 2012
A Look at Common Northwest Insects
