Living close to the land has its perks—but biting bugs aren’t one of them. Whether you’re walking fence lines, tending animals, or fishing at the pond, ticks, mosquitoes, and flies are a daily battle. Here’s how to fight back—safely and effectively.
1. Ticks in Tall Grass: Ticks thrive along wooded edges and overgrown trails. Mow high-use areas often, add gravel or mulch paths to break up tick habitat, and treat boots and clothes with permethrin spray (never directly on animals).
2. Mosquito Hotspots: Standing water is breeding ground #1. Empty troughs, buckets, and tires regularly. Add aerators to ponds or use mosquito dunks (safe for livestock and fish). Bonus tip: install bat boxes—bats eat thousands of mosquitoes per night.
3. Flies Around Livestock: Flies stress animals and spread disease. Use fly predators (tiny, non-stinging wasps that kill larvae), hang DIY traps in barns, and keep manure piles dry and managed to reduce fly breeding zones.
4. Go Easy on Chemicals: Harsh sprays can harm pollinators and soil. Opt for natural repellents made with cedarwood, eucalyptus, or citronella oils. Always check labels, especially near animals and crops.
In Summary: Summer pests are part of rural life—but they don’t have to take over. With a few simple, land-smart habits, you can protect yourself, your animals, and your property all season long.
