Ticks in New Hampshire
New Hampshire is a treasure trove of natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. From majestic mountains to tranquil lakes and dense forests, the state offers a plethora of options for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, or simply immersing yourself in the serene surroundings, New Hampshire's outdoor recreational areas are sure to captivate your senses and provide unforgettable experiences. Unfortunately, New Hampshire is also home to a wide variety of dangerous ticks.
Ticks in New Hampshire are a threat everywhere, from the deep forest to urban backyards. These lethal arachnids employ a behavior known as "questing", a passive strategy where they position themselves in vegetation, such as tall grasses or shrubs, and wait for a potential host to pass by.
Ticks have specialized sensory organs located on their legs, known as Haller's organs, which can detect stimuli such as heat, carbon dioxide, vibrations, and odor. When a human or animal approaches a waiting tick senses these stimuli and reacts by extending its legs outward, latching on as you pass by.
Once a tick has hitched a ride, it will crawl to a secluded location on your body, attach, and feed on your blood. Ticks secrete a unique substance that prevents you from feeling their bite, so they can feast unnoticed. Disease transmission may occur.
Popular outdoor areas in New Hampshire that are also home to ticks:
One of the most prominent attractions in New Hampshire is the White Mountain National Forest. Spanning over 750,000 acres, this breathtaking region is a paradise for hikers and campers. The forest is home to the Appalachian Trail, a legendary long-distance trail that stretches from Georgia to Maine. Hiking through the White Mountains rewards visitors with stunning vistas, pristine waterfalls, and an opportunity to summit Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeastern United States.
For water enthusiasts, New Hampshire boasts numerous lakes and rivers perfect for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Lake Winnipesaukee, the state's largest lake, offers ample opportunities for boating and water sports. Squam Lake, known for its tranquil beauty, gained fame as the filming location for the classic movie "On Golden Pond." The Connecticut River, which forms New Hampshire's western border, provides excellent fishing spots and picturesque settings for leisurely boat rides.
New Hampshire is also renowned for its state parks, which preserve and showcase the state's natural wonders. Franconia Notch State Park, nestled in the heart of the White Mountains, is a must-visit destination. Here, visitors can marvel at the stunning Flume Gorge, take a scenic ride on the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, or enjoy a refreshing dip in Echo Lake. Pawtuckaway State Park, located in southeastern New Hampshire, offers opportunities for hiking, swimming, and camping amidst a picturesque landscape dotted with bogs, marshes, and a large lake.
Outdoor enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush will find solace in New Hampshire's rock climbing and mountain biking opportunities. Cathedral Ledge in North Conway is a popular rock-climbing destination, offering challenging routes and breathtaking views. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore the vast trail networks in locations like Kingdom Trails in the town of East Burke or Bear Brook State Park near Manchester.
During the winter months, New Hampshire transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting snow sports enthusiasts from far and wide. The state boasts exceptional ski resorts such as Loon Mountain, Bretton Woods, and Cannon Mountain. These resorts offer diverse terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels, as well as opportunities for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling.
In addition to its natural beauty, New Hampshire is rich in cultural heritage. The Lakes Region, home to picturesque towns like Wolfeboro and Meredith, is known for its charming waterfronts, quaint shops, and cultural events. The annual New Hampshire Highland Games and Festival, held in Lincoln, celebrates the state's Scottish heritage with traditional music, games, and activities.
In conclusion, New Hampshire's outdoor recreational areas are a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. From the majestic peaks of the White Mountains to the serene lakes and charming towns, the state offers an abundance of opportunities to explore and reconnect with nature. Whether you seek thrilling adventures or peaceful retreats, New Hampshire's outdoor wonders are sure to leave you with lasting memories and a deep appreciation for the state's natural beauty.
So, grab your hiking boots, sunscreen, sense of adventure, and go experience all that New Hampshire has to offer. Just don’t forget your tick repellent. The wide variety of human biting ticks that call New Hampshire home commonly transmit over a dozen tick-borne diseases. Ticks are out there ruining lives every day, do not become a statistic.
Ticks in New Hampshire transmit conditions such as Lyme disease, tularemia, babesiosis, tick paralysis, Powassan virus, Heartland virus, Colorado tick fever, Borrelia miyamotoi disease, anaplasmosis, and Alfa gal allergy.
Major cities in New Hampshire also home to ticks include Manchester, Nashua, Concord, Derry, Dover, Rochester, Salem, Merrimack, Londonderry, and Hudson.
Read more about ticks in New Hampshire at:
https://www.dartmouth-hitchcock.org/stories/article/staying-safe-during-tick-season