Insects

Yellowjacket wasps and ticks are the two major concern to visitors.

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Insects Details

While there are an incredible variety of native and non-native insects living in the Great Smoky Mountains, Yellowjacket wasps and ticks are the only two of any major concern to visitors. Wasp stings are best avoided by abstaining from perfumes and other scented toiletries, which tend to attract them. Stings, while generally tolerable, can result in serious reactions in those allergic. Ticks, meanwhile, are generally unnoticeable, and can be found in both open field areas and heavily wooded areas. Ticks are most active in warm weather, and a through search of both the scalp and body should be preformed after hiking or walking in potential tick habitats. If a tick is located, used tweezers to firmly grasp the tick nearest the skin, and pull to remove.

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