It’s not just bears emerging in K-Country, deer ticks are back too, and they’re on the move.
The tiny pests are already being spotted in the Kananaskis area, including a recent report near Zephyr Creek by the Sentinel Day Use area. Ticks tend to lurk in tall grass, shrubs, and along wildlife trails, places hikers and pets often pass through.
If you’re heading out for a hike, it’s a good time to start doing regular tick checks on yourself and your pets.
What to Do If You Find a Tick:
According to My Health Alberta, follow these steps to safely remove a tick:
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Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible.
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Gently pull straight out—don’t twist or yank.
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Avoid squeezing the tick’s body, which could push bacteria into your skin.
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If part of the tick remains, don’t dig for it. It will typically come out on its own.
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Clean the area with soap and water.
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Monitor for symptoms like a red, expanding rash or flu-like feelings.
What Not to Do:
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Don’t apply petroleum jelly, nail polish, or alcohol to suffocate the tick.
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Don’t try to burn it off with a match or cigarette.
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Most tick bites don’t lead to infection, but it’s better to be cautious, ticks generally need to be attached for at least 36 hours to transmit Lyme disease.