Welcome to SUMMER at River Bluffs! While you might be hanging around the pool this season, waiting for cooler weather before exploring our neighborhood woods, we wanted to remind you of the local critters and plants to be on the look out for once you decide to trade the pavement for trails.
1. Mosquitos
Mosquitos and other pesky bugs that bite can be a real nuisance while spending time outdoors with family and friends. Keep mosquitos at bay by remembering to use bug spray BEFORE you step outside! There are lots of bug repellant options to choose from, so do your homework before you select a brand and lather up.
2. Ticks
Tick are always common in wooded areas, so make sure to wear long pants, socks, and close toe shoes will trekking around our trails this summer! Ticks can care Lyme disease, which effects humans and furry friends, so be sure to adequately protect your dogs and cats this upcoming season as well.
3. Spiders
Running into a cobweb while enjoying an afternoon jog can be scary so remember to pause and check for spiders. While most spiders in the area are harmless, some woodland spiders, like the brown recluse, can be dangerous. If you suspect you’ve been bitten by a poisonous spider, be on the safe side and get checked out by a medical professional.
4. Snakes
From copperheads to rattlesnakes, our area is known for for all types of non-venomous and venomous snakes. Remember to be on the look out for snakes while running, walking, and spending time relaxing outdoors. Snakes are naturally skittish and seek shelter when they feel unsafe, so chances are you might not see one. If you do, please report it immediately to our Sales Center so we can contact the proper wildlife removal services!
5. Poisonous Plants
Most people are familiar with poison ivy, but don’t forget about poison oak and poison sumac! All of these plants are common in our area and can leave you with an itchy rash if touched. Other poisonous plants are only harmful if ingested, so never ever eat berries or flowers you are not familiar with. If you find a poisonous plant, help others avoid it by letting the Sales Center know!
Remember to have FUN while staying SAFE all summer long at River Bluffs! If you need to report a dangerous wildlife sighting, please contact our Sales Center or make and an announcement on the River Bluffs Resident Portal. By working together, we can all have a great, active summer outdoors.
*To learn more about the nature that surrounds our community, read this recent blog and watch this video: