To make your visits to Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge as pleasant as possible you should keep these precautions in mind:
Insect repellant is recommended while hiking the trails during the months of April through October. Mosquitos, deer flies, greenhead flies, and biting gnats can be especially fierce in the wooded and marsh areas.
Poison Ivy is a common sight on the Refuge. It is relished by deer and over sixty species of birds eat the berries. All parts of the plant and smoke from burning plants can give people serious rashes during any season. Poison Ivy is distinguished from other plants by its three leaflets per leaf and the alternate leaf arrangement. Also avoid the "hairy" vines during the dormant season.
The Refuge supports ideal habitat for the venomous eastern cottonmouth. Remember that these snakes are more afraid of you than you are of them, and that a snake will seldom strike unless cornered. Stay out of high grass and watch your step, because many snakes wear a protective camouflage. Report any snake bites to Refuge personnel and seek medicinal treatment immediately.
Spring and summer are tick seasons. Ticks congregate on low-lying vegetation, so avoid walking through tall grass by staying on marked trails. A few ticks may carry Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and/or Lyme Disease, so check yourself and children thoroughly after visiting the Refuge. Ticks may be removed with tweezers after rubbing baby oil or alcohol on them. If they become imbedded or if fever occurs, consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Summers in Virginia can be very hot. When temperatures exceed 90 degrees, individuals should be concerned about heat stress. Drink lots of water. Bring water along when hiking or biking in the Refuge. Stop and rest frequently. Avoid over exerting yourself. Wear layered, loose fitting clothing.