What are Greenheads?
Greenheads, also known as the Tabanidae family, are large biting flies that are prevalent in the North Shore area of Massachusetts. They are typically found near salt marshes and are most active during July and August. Female Greenheads feed on blood, which they need in order to produce viable eggs. Their bite can be painful and irritating, leading to swelling and redness.Does Crane's Beach have Greenheads?
Unfortunately, the answer is yes. Crane's Beach is located near several salt marshes, which are the natural habitats of Greenheads. Visitors to the beach may encounter these pesky insects during the summer months, especially during the peak of their breeding season in July and August. However, the beach does take measures to control the Greenhead population. They use traps and natural repellents to minimize the number of Greenheads in the area.How to Protect Yourself
If you're planning to visit Crane's Beach during the summer, it's essential to take proactive steps to avoid getting bitten by Greenheads. Here are some tips to protect yourself:1. Wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and pants. This will reduce the amount of exposed skin, making it more difficult for Greenheads to bite you.
2. Apply insect repellent to your skin, particularly on your legs and feet where Greenheads tend to bite. Look for a repellent containing DEET or picaridin.
3. Time your visit accordingly. Greenheads are most active during the hottest part of the day. Consider visiting the beach earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon when the insects are less active.
4. Use a natural repellent. Some people swear by using a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle to repel Greenheads. Others recommend using essential oils such as lemon eucalyptus or peppermint to keep the insects at bay.