Going to Longboat for a couple of months with small dog. I react to no see ums. Just returned Oct 1-15 from Sanibel with many bites. Is Atlantic coast better for not having these terrible pests?
There really isn’t any difference that you can bank on. In general, there are many factors that affect when these guys are active, how many will be present, how long they’ll live, etc. But above all else, they tend to be most active and thriving along the coast of any ocean, sea, canal or other waterway with salt water. No doubt the entire Gulf of Mexico is prime ground as your experience at Sanibel confirms. And since the Gulf can remain moist and warm throughout the year, no see ums can be found any time.
As for the Atlantic shoreline; this region tends to get too cold once you move above North Carolina. But if you were to be traversing water in Florida, there is a good chance you’ll encounter more. You may want to consider one of our repellents like DEET, SUNBLOCK AND REPELLENT, DEET LOTION or PERMETHRIN SPRAY for your boat and clothing. Any combination of these can really help make them more manageable. And a HEAD NET may offer some relief too.
Here are direct links to the products listed above:
Deet: http://www.bugspraycart.com/repellents/liquid/deet-100
Sunblock/Repellent: http://www.bugspraycart.com/repellents/liquid/sunblock-repellent-4-7-oz-rts
Deet Lotion: http://www.bugspraycart.com/repellents/liquid/deet-20-lotion-6-oz
Permethrin Spray: http://www.bugspraycart.com/repellents/aerosol/permethrin-aerosol-6-oz
Head Net: http://www.bugspraycart.com/equipment/netting/mosq-head-net
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