Trails are for Southcliff residents only
Post date: May 30, 2018 4:15:17 PM
Attention Hikers!
We have had numerous reports from Southcliff residents finding ticks on their skin and clothing after hiking our trails. The very damp warm weather and the dense foliage create a perfect environment for ticks to thrive. There have been news reports that the tick population in general is much higher this year than normal. Therefore, we suggest applying insect repellent before hiking and then taking a few minutes after your hike to inspect your body and clothing. Because ticks carry a variety of diseases, you’ll want to make sure to remove them immediately.
Also, your pets are very susceptible to ticks, especially when romping in high grass or weeds. Make sure to inspect them and brush them after a hike.
In addition to ticks, spider populations may also be on the rise. One resident has recently reported seeing a black widow spider. The black widow and the brown recluse are poisonous spiders found in North Carolina. Although the brown recluse spider is more commonly found indoors (they love cool dry places like cardboard storage boxes), it’s still possible to find them on the trail.
So in addition to being on the lookout for bears, please keep an eye out for these much smaller critters, which can be just as dangerous.