Читать книгу Five-Star Trails: Charlotte. Your Guide to the Area's Most Beautiful Hikes онлайн

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BLACK FLIES: Though these insects are certainly pests and maddeningly annoying, the worst a black fly will cause is an itchy welt. They are most active April–June, during the day, and especially before thunderstorms, as well as during the morning and evening hours. Insect repellent has some effect, but the only way to keep out of their swarming midst is to keep moving.

MOSQUITOES: They’re certainly a problem in and around Charlotte during the warmer months. During the early spring, the mosquitoes haven’t emerged in their full numbers. After the first freeze of the winter, the population is seriously reduced. This makes fall and spring particularly pleasant times to hike and be free of the pestering and itch-inducing buggers. Ward off these pests with insect repellent and/or repellent-impregnated clothing.

Another great way to keep your sanity and avoid being bitten is to wear gloves and a head net. A net draped over a wide-brimmed hat works especially well for keeping all bugs from landing on your face and the back of your neck. In some areas, mosquitoes are known to carry the West Nile virus, so all due caution should be taken to avoid their bites.