Winter finally fading into… tick season!

HIKING — Ticks apparently weathered the winter better than most of us.

“There might still be snow on area trails but ticks are out,” says Ken Wirtz. “After a nice  hike at Saltese Uplands with favorite wife (Rita) on Sunday, we both found hitchhikers while showering.”

I hiked near Fishtrap Lake with my dog on Saturday and found no ticks after three hours in the field. But if past experience holds true, they’ll be out soon.

Another local hiking attraction that’s typically active with ticks in spring is Slavin Conservation Area south of Spokane off US 195.

If you’re heading out to explore the lowland natural areas around Eastern Washington, be warned that it’s time to be using some DEET insect repellent on your neck and around cuffs of shirt and pants. Consider going “nerdy” by tucking those pant-legs into your socks.

Consider using Frontline or treated vests on your dogs.  And if your dog starts acting drunk-like or has trouble moving its limbs this time of year, consider the possibility of tick paralysis .

Tick season is beginning to bloom.

• Click here to read my detailed primer on hiking and recreating in tick country .