DID YOU KNOW? — Several Types of Ticks Can Be Found Around Lafontaine & Georgian Bay
Health experts are warning that Ontario could see a major increase in ticks this summer due to warmer winters and changing weather patterns. Blacklegged ticks (also called deer ticks) are spreading into more areas of the province and can carry Lyme disease.
Even though the Lafontaine and Georgian Bay area experienced a fairly active and snowy winter this year, health experts are still warning that this area could see a heavy tick season this summer.
Why?
Ticks are surprisingly resilient. Snow cover can actually help insulate ticks from extreme cold, while warmer spring temperatures and wetter conditions can increase their activity early in the season.
Ticks That May Be Found In the Lafontaine / Tiny Township Area
Blacklegged Tick (Deer Tick)
The most talked-about tick in Ontario because it can carry Lyme disease. These ticks are small and dark brown to reddish-orange.
Lone Star Tick
Still uncommon in Ontario but occasionally reported as ticks slowly expand northward. Recognizable by the white dot on the female’s back. While the lone star tick cannot transmit Lyme disease, a bite can cause alpha-gal syndrome (AGS), a serious potentially life-threatening allergy to red meat.
Brown Dog Tick
The Brown Dog Tick is considered the most widespread tick species in Ontario! But luckily, it doesn’t typically bite humans. However, when they do, they have been known to transmit the bacterium that causes Rocky Mountain spotted fever, a severe tick-borne illness with a mortality rate of over 20% if not treated early. Symptoms include high fever, chills, muscle aches, headaches, and sometimes a rash. For transmission to occur, however, the tick must be attached for at least six hours.
Ticks are commonly found in:
- Tall grass
- Bush and wooded trails
- Leaf litter
- Cottage and rural properties
- Areas near beaches, dunes, and shoreline vegetation
A few easy ways to help protect yourself and your pets:
- Wear light-coloured clothing when outdoors
- Use insect repellent approved for ticks
- Stay on cleared paths whenever possible
- Check your body and clothing after yard work, hiking, or beach walks
- Pay close attention around ankles, waistlines, behind knees, and under arms
- Shower after outdoor activities
- Keep grass cut short around cottages and homes
- Remove brush piles and excess leaf litter near play or sitting areas
For pet owners:
Dogs can easily pick up ticks around wooded lots, shoreline paths, and trails. Check pets carefully after walks, especially around ears, neck, paws, and under collars. Ask your veterinarian about tick prevention products.
Ticks can be extremely small — some no bigger than a poppy seed — so regular checks are important throughout spring, summer, and fall. If you find an attached tick, remove it carefully with fine-tip tweezers and monitor for symptoms such as rash, fever, fatigue, or joint pain.
With more residents and visitors enjoying the outdoors around Lafontaine and Georgian Bay during the warmer months, awareness and routine tick checks can go a long way toward reducing risk this season.
https://birdwatchinghq.com/ticks-in-ontario/
