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Family camping is usually lots of fun, but it can be an unpleasant experience. If you are not prepared for mosquitoes, flies, birds, skunks, raccoons and other creatures, your camping trip can quickly turn into a nightmare.

Here are some pests to watch for:

  • flies and mosquitoes
    These pests can quickly bring an end to your comfort around the campground, so take along something that will repel these little nasties. Citronella candles help keep them away from the immediate area, but for thorough protection you may need to apply a bug repellent to your skin.

  • ticks
    Besides just being yucky, certain species of tick carry Lyme disease. When outdoors, prevention is the best measure: wear hats, cover exposed areas of skin with long clothes; use a repellent, such as Deet, on your clothing, but not on your skin; avoid walking through talk grass or brush; and perform routine inspections to check for ticks. If you find one, remove promptly.

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  • poison ivy, poison oak, and nettles
    Obnoxious plants, indeed! The best prevention is to learn to identify these plants, then avoid any contact. Should you touch one of these plants, do not scratch, and wash the area in cold water. Should you develop a rash, use a topical solution like calamine lotion.

  • chipmunks, raccoons, and skunks
    These creatures of the night are out to steal your food and cause general dismay at your campsite. Although they are cute to look at, they are still wild creatures. Observe them from a distance, and don't leave food out where they can get into it.

  • birds, crows, ravens, and gulls
    Observe the same precautions for birds as you would for the small animals, and don't leave any food out at an unattended campsite.

With a little knowledge and proper prevention, your next camping trip doesn't have to be disrupted by any pests.

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