Ticks Lurking in Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, Running Springs

Yes, ticks are present in the Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and Running Springs areas, as these mountain communities are part of the San Bernardino National Forest, where ticks thrive in wooded, grassy, and brushy environments. Here’s what you need to know:

• Tick Presence:

  • Ticks are active in Crestline and Lake Arrowhead, particularly in spring and fall when temperatures are moderate, though they can be found year-round.

  • Common species include the Western black-legged tick (Ixodes pacificus), which can carry Lyme disease, and the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis), known for transmitting Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

• Habitats:

  • Ticks are often found in areas with dense vegetation, such as hiking trails, forests, and grassy areas near Lake Gregory (Crestline) and Lake Arrowhead.

  • They are more prevalent in shaded, moist environments and can climb onto people or pets from low-lying plants or leaf litter.

• Risks:

  • While the risk of tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease is lower in California compared to the Northeast, it still exists. The Western black-legged tick is the primary carrier of Lyme disease in this region, with reported cases in San Bernardino County.

  • Pets, especially dogs, are at higher risk of tick bites and should be checked regularly after outdoor activities.

• Prevention Tips:

  • Wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes when hiking or exploring wooded areas. Tuck pants into socks to prevent ticks from crawling up.

  • Use insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or permethrin on clothing and exposed skin.

  • Stick to the center of trails to avoid brushing against vegetation where ticks may be waiting.

  • Check yourself, children, and pets thoroughly for ticks after outdoor activities, paying close attention to areas like the scalp, behind ears, armpits, and groin.

  • For pets, consider tick preventatives like collars, topical treatments, or oral medications, and consult your vet for recommendations.

• Local Insights:

  • Community reports and forums, such as those on social media, often mention tick encounters in Crestline and Lake Arrowhead, especially near trails and lakefront areas.

  • Local pest control services in the area offer tick control treatments for yards, indicating a recognized presence of ticks in residential areas, particularly where deer (a common tick host) are present.

• What to Do If Bitten:

  • If you find a tick attached, remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers, grasping it as close to the skin as possible and pulling straight out without twisting.

  • Clean the bite area with soap and water or an antiseptic, and monitor for symptoms of illness (e.g., fever, rash) for several weeks. Seek medical attention if symptoms appear.

While ticks are not as widespread a concern as in some other regions, they are present in Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, and Running Springs, especially in natural settings. Taking preventive measures and staying vigilant can help you enjoy the outdoors safely.

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