Conquering Cottage Country Critters: A Guide to Bug-Free Bliss

Understanding Your Adversaries: Flighters vs. Biters

In the realm of cottage pests, there are two main categories: the harmless but annoying "Flighters," and the dreaded "Biters," which can turn a relaxing getaway into an itchy nightmare. Ontario's cottage country is a hotspot for various biting and stinging insects, including black flies, mosquitoes, deer flies, stable flies, and horse flies. While other insects like bees and wasps generally won't bother you unless provoked, black flies and mosquitoes seem to have a vendetta against human skin, especially near cedar trees, which emit a scent that attracts these critters.

Seasonal Swarms: Timing Your Cottage Retreat

To plan your escape from these biting bugs, it's crucial to know their peak seasons. The Weather Network offers a Bug Report feature that provides updates on the activity of these insects in Ontario's cities and towns. While this tool doesn't offer long-term forecasts, it can guide you through the typical bug seasons in cottage country:

• Mid-May to End of June: Black flies reign supreme, with a particular fondness for the flesh around your head and ears. One effective defense is the Fly Patch, which attaches to the back of a baseball cap, trapping the flies upon contact. These pests dislike windy areas but thrive near fast-flowing rivers and shaded spots.
• Mid-May to August: Mosquitoes are omnipresent, especially in shaded areas or after dusk. Not only are they a nuisance, but they also pose a health risk as carriers of the West Nile Virus. Minimizing bites is essential for your family's well-being.
• September: If you're not constrained by school schedules, September offers a bug-free paradise.

Dressing for Defense: Outfitting Against the Onslaught

When venturing into bug territory, your attire can be your first line of defense. Here are some tips for staying bite-free:

• Wear light-colored, long pants and tuck them into your socks.
• Opt for long-sleeved shirts to cover exposed skin.
• Consider a bug hat and shirt for added protection, despite their lack of fashion appeal.

The Battle of the Repellents: DEET vs. Natural Alternatives

While natural options like citronella may smell pleasant, they often fall short in effectiveness. DEET-based bug sprays are the go-to for many, but caution is advised, especially for young children. According to Today's Parent magazine, the following guidelines should be observed:

• Children aged six months to two years: Use repellents with 10% DEET, limited to once daily.
• Children aged two to 12: Same concentration, up to three times a day.
• Children over 12: Can use 30% DEET sparingly.
• Never apply repellent to the face and hands, and wash it off with soap and water at day's end.

Embracing the Great Outdoors: Strategies for a Bug-Free Experience

With some foresight and preparation, insects don't have to ruin your cottage experience. Here are additional strategies to keep the bugs at bay:

• Use screened areas for dining and relaxing.
• Install fans to create wind that deters flying insects.
• Light citronella candles or torches as a supplementary measure.
• Consider natural landscaping solutions that repel bugs, such as planting marigolds or lavender.

By equipping yourself with knowledge and the right tools, you can enjoy your summer retreat without the unwelcome company of biting bugs. So arm yourself with repellent, dress strategically, and reclaim the joy of cottage living amidst Ontario's natural beauty.