Most of us in Connecticut are thrilled that winter passed by quickly and our snowblowers only had to be dragged out of the garage a handful of times. But that mild winter is expected to take its revenge with a surge of ticks in 2019. As you begin to embark on your outdoor adventures this season, you’ll need to be vigilant and take some extra precautions to avoid tangling with these potentially dangerous critters.

As the temperatures rise, you'll want to start to spend more time outside. Just be aware that the lack of the snow on the ground this past winter means that tick season will be longer than usual throughout Southern New England.
Flickr/Joe Shlabotnik
Ticks thrive in an environment that is wet and mild. Our above average temperatures this winter and the amount of rain has increased the tick survival rate heading into spring.
Flickr/USFWS Midwest Region
This doesn't mean you should lock your doors and stay inside! You can still embark on all of your outdoor adventures as long as you take certain precautions.
Flickr/kenneth casper
Stick to the center of the trails when you go for a hike. Also, avoid going into areas with tall grasses and use an EPA registered insect repellent.
Flickr/Lisa Jacobs

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Even though it might be hot under the sun, try to wear long pants when hiking in forested areas.
Flickr/redisant
When you're done outside, make sure you check for ticks on your clothing, pets, backpacks, and body. Try to shower within two hours after coming inside to wash away unattached ticks.
Flickr/Jason Jones
About 25 percent of ticks are infected with the Lyme Disease germ so it's important to be diligent. In 2017, there were more than 2,000 probable and confirmed cases of Lyme Disease in Connecticut.
Flickr/wahoowins
This year. scientists are beginning a new program to trap and monitor ticks throughout Connecticut. The program is being funded by the Center for Disease Control and will help give a clearer understanding of tick-related diseases across the state.
Flickr/JJBers

Wear the proper attire, get the right insect repellent, stick to the trails, and check for ticks after any outdoor adventure and you’ll reduce your chances of getting a tick bite.

Now that you know what to do to protect yourself from ticks in 2019, here are nine easy breezy spring hikes to enjoy.

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