Ticks are small parasites found in moorland, woodlands, and long grass across Dartmoor, especially during spring, summer, and autumn. While most tick bites are harmless, it's important to check yourself after climbing and know how to remove a tick safely.
After a climbing session, especially in long grass or bracken, inspect your body carefully for ticks. They can attach anywhere, but commonly bite on exposed skin like legs, arms, armpits, and the hairline.
Ticks are small — about the size of a sesame seed when unfed, and slightly larger when engorged with blood. Check your clothes as well, as ticks may fall off or be transported on fabric.
If you find a tick attached to your skin, use fine-tipped tweezers or a dedicated tick removal tool. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull steadily upward. Avoid twisting or squeezing the tick's body.
After removal, clean the bite site with soap and water or an antiseptic. Save the tick in a small container in case you develop symptoms later and need to show a doctor what bit you. Dispose of the tick by placing it in a sealed bag or flushing it down the toilet — do not crush it with your fingers.
Ticks can carry Lyme disease, a bacterial infection transmitted through their saliva. While most tick bites do not result in infection, it's important to watch for symptoms in the weeks following a bite.
Seek medical advice if you develop a bullseye-shaped rash, fever, fatigue, joint pain, or muscle aches within a few weeks of a tick bite. Early treatment with antibiotics is highly effective.
Wear long socks and lightweight trousers when climbing in areas with long grass, bracken, or woodlands. Use an insect repellent containing DEET (at least 20%) on exposed skin and on clothing, and reapply after swimming or heavy sweating.
After returning home, wash your climbing clothes separately and consider showering. Do a thorough body check, paying special attention to warm, moist areas like armpits, groin, and behind the knees.