If you’re the kind of person who lives for the outdoors—whether it’s hiking Fundy trails, exploring forest paths in Kouchibouguac, or just kicking back in your backyard hammock—then it’s time we had a quick, no-panic chat about ticks.
Yep, those tiny, hitchhiking bugs are out there. But don’t worry—we’ve got the basics covered so you can stay safe and still enjoy every second outside.
What Ticks Are in New Brunswick?
New Brunswick has its fair share of tick species, but there are three main ones you should know:
- Blacklegged tick (a.k.a. deer tick) – These are the ones to watch. They can carry Lyme disease.
- American dog tick – More common, but less risky. They don’t carry Lyme, but can still bite.
- Brown dog tick – Usually found on dogs, more of an indoor problem, but still worth noting.
Where Do Ticks Hang Out?
Ticks aren’t flying or jumping—they’re chilling in grassy, wooded, or brushy areas, just waiting for a ride (like, you).
High-risk zones:
- Tall grass
- Leafy undergrowth
- Forest edges
- Overgrown trails
- Woodpiles or stone fences
Popular NB spots like Mactaquac, Mount Carleton, and Fundy National Park all have beautiful trails… and a healthy tick population. It doesn’t mean don’t go—just go smart.
How to Keep Ticks Off You
You don’t need to suit up like a hazmat team, but a few tweaks to your outdoor setup can make a big difference:
- Wear long pants and tuck them into your socks. Unfashionable? Maybe. Effective? Definitely.
- Stick to the center of trails—avoid brushing against tall grasses or shrubs.
- Light-colored clothes make it easier to spot ticks crawling on you.
- Use insect repellent with DEET or Icaridin.
- Do a tick check as soon as you get back inside—armpits, groin, scalp, behind the knees. Check kids and pets too.
Bonus tip: Toss your clothes in the dryer on high heat for 10 minutes when you get home. Ticks can’t handle the heat.
What If You Get Bitten?
It happens. No panic. Here’s what to do:
- Remove the tick ASAP using fine-tipped tweezers. Grab it as close to the skin as possible and pull straight out—no twisting, no squeezing.
- Clean the area with soap and water, or rubbing alcohol.
- Save the tick in a plastic bag or container. Label it with the date. You can send it for testing if symptoms show up.
- Watch for symptoms over the next 30 days.
Symptoms to Watch For
Some people don’t react at all. Others might notice:
- A bull’s-eye rash (a big red ring around the bite—classic Lyme sign)
- Fever, chills
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle or joint pain
- Swollen lymph nodes
If anything feels off, especially flu-like symptoms in tick season (spring to fall), see a doctor. Lyme disease caught early is treatable with antibiotics.
The Bottom Line
Ticks are part of the deal when you love the outdoors in New Brunswick. But a little awareness goes a long way. Gear up smart, check yourself after adventures, and keep an eye out for symptoms.
No need to cancel your summer plans—just give ticks the respect they deserve and carry on exploring.
Stay curious. Stay safe. Stay outside.
– The TimeToXplore crew 🧭🌲
Additional information
https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/corporate/promo/tick-borne-diseases/facts.html