The Hudson Valley’s population is booming ... the tick population, that is.
Tuck your pants into your socks: May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month (but researchers say: Every season is tick season)
by niki@hvny.info
Every day I walk our two big ol’ furry dogs through acres of wild meadow fields in the Dutchess County countryside. Beautiful, right? Except … it’s tick season. So, every time we come back inside from those walks, it’s time for Tick Check. Starting with their shaggy legs and paws, we pick through their fur like proper doting animal moms, using tweezers and sharp fingernails to pluck and drop ticks of all sizes into a Ball jar of soapy water, slam dunking them to their demise, then into the toilet.
And it's not just me and the pooches – experts agree: there are more ticks this season here in the Hudson Valley.
“... expect more than the ‘normal’ or average abundance of infected nymphal ticks in our area this spring/summer.”
"Based on the heavy acorn year of 2019 and high mouse and chipmunk densities in 2020, I expect more than the ‘normal’ or average abundance of infected nymphal ticks in our area this spring/summer,” disease ecologist Dr. Rick Ostfeld of the Cary Institute in Millbrook told HVNY.
“This expectation applies to areas here in the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic that had a good mast* year in 2019 but not necessarily elsewhere." (*Mast is when trees produce a lot of acorns)
According to the Cary Institute, nymphal ticks are the most dangerous to us because they are tiny and therefore hard to detect. The nymph season starts in May and extends into early July.
But researchers also note: Every season is tick season. “Impervious to all but the most bitter cold, ticks take shelter in the leaf litter in gardens and woods. Whenever it gets a little above freezing, they crawl out and up.”
Ticks can be active on any day when the ground temperatures are above 45 degrees Fahrenheit, the state department of health says.
TICK TIPS:
Location:
Northeast, upper Midwest and Northwest United States
Prevention:
Wear light-colored clothing, closed-toe shoes and pants tucked into socks.
Stay on well-maintained trails, avoiding tall grass and dense wooded areas.
Tick check! Take a warm shower and thoroughly check the entire body for ticks every night.
Put clothes in a hot dryer for ten minutes after coming inside to get rid of any ticks on clothes
Repellent:
Tick-repellent clothing treated with permethrin, DEET or a natural repellent
If you find a tick on you, here's what to do:
Using needle-nose tweezers, gently grab the tick right at the base of your skin and carefully pull away at a right angle
Use gentle, consistent pulling to cause the tick to let go, instead of separating it's body from it's head
Wash the area after with warm soapy water
Monitor the bite area and any symptoms of tick-borne illness (see more below). If you notice any of these symptoms appear, call your healthcare provider.
Symptoms to watch out for after a tick-bite:
A “Bulls-eye" circular rash three days to one month after tick bite
Joint pain, chills, fever and fatigue
Headache
Get in touch with your healthcare provider if you have any of these symptoms after a bite.
Over 300,000 Americans contract Lyme disease each year, and Dutchess County is “home to some of the nation’s highest rates of Lyme disease incidence.”
Because of this, Dr. Richard Ostfeld and Bard College biologist Dr. Felicia Keesing have been working on The Tick Project, performing micro-experiments in local neighborhoods to try to reduce exposure and prevent tick-borne illnesses in an area. Residents from 100 households in 24 neighborhoods consisting of 6-10 square blocks in Dutchess County have participated in the project. The study uses two tick control methods – one is a tick-killing fungus made from naturally-occurring soils in North American forests. The other is a baited box that administers a small dose of fipronil – the active ingredient in many dog and cat tick treatments – to kill the ticks on the mouse or chipmunk. Inactive ingredients were used as a control for the experiment. Fieldwork will continue this spring/summer, and findings from the first 5 years are anticipated to be released this summer or fall.
In addition to small rodents, a new study released in February of 2021 identified several bird species that could potentially spread Lyme disease. Ground-feeding birds may transmit the disease that causes Lyme disease more so than some rodents, according to the study.
Dutchess County is not alone. Lyme disease rates have remained high over the last decade throughout the Hudson Valley, while rates in New York State are increasing mainly due to geographic expansion. Putnam County Health Commissioner Michael J. Nesheiwat, MD, pointed to the continued high rates of tickborne illnesses in Putnam County, saying “Lyme disease is by far the most prevalent, but not the only concern. Anaplasmosis and babesiosis, carried by the same tick that transmits Lyme disease, are also commonly diagnosed in Putnam County.”
What can we do about ticks day-to-day? No human vaccine is currently available, and no treatment is guaranteed, so limiting your exposure to possibly-infected ticks is imperative. Tick check daily – check over yourself and your pets at the end of the day, place clothes directly into the dryer for a cycle in high heat, stay in the center of trails when out hiking, wear light colored clothing or even don the one-piece TickSuit to impress all your hiking buds.
If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it with a tweezer so you get the head of the tick, then monitor the location for a bullseye rash, and reach out to your healthcare provider if you come down with any symptoms like headache, joint pain or fatigue.
More info: https://www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/lyme/
Custom hand-drawn graphite portraits in a variety of sizes: 5×7, 8×10, and 11×14; multiple pets per portrait available!
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Fine art print, 8.5×11
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Fine art print, 13x19
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Fine art print, 13x19
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A spooky holographic sticker for those who know how haunted the Hudson Valley is. Show off your spooky NY state pride with these weatherproof vinyl stickers that look good on anything you can stick them to. Size: 3"
Designed by: © Bee Reckless, @RecklessReads.
All rights reserved.
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Magick is within all of us! In this book, Bee Reckless focuses on ways to tap into your inner magick. Along with the magick within you, she brings spells, rituals, and more that any level of witch can benefit from by incorporating into their craft.
Featuring:
✦ Guides to tapping into your own magick
✦ Spells & Rituals
✦ Kitchen Witch Recipes
✦ Reference Information & Cheat Sheets
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If witchcraft seems overwhelming, you’ve come to the right place. In her debut witchcraft book, Bee Reckless shares spells and tips from five-plus years of dedication to the craft that any level of witch can benefit from. So, fire up that cauldron and charge those crystals… It’s witchcraft time, baby!
Featuring:
• Witchy life-hacks
• Rituals & Spells
• Kitchen Witch Recipes
• Reference Information & Cheat Sheets
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Acrylic on canvas panel. 4×6”.
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Acrylic on canvas panel. 6×8”.
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A creative book on how to use flowers and natural elements to dye fabric and paper through a process called Tataki Zome, or leaf hammering. Local author Michelle Moore discusses all of the elements of working natural dyes from pre-treatment through mordants to the process of hammering flowers. Ships directly from the author + price includes the cost of shipping
Washington Irving called the Catskill Mountains in upstate New York a "spellbound region," and the ghosts that linger from more than four hundred years of history provide proof of Irving's intuition. In Hudson, Maggie Houghtaling's ghost haunts the "Register-Star" building, where she was hanged in 1817 for murdering her child--a crime for which she was later cleared. The ghost of a young Native American girl haunts Claverack Creek, where she threw herself into the water when her father forbade her to be with the man she loved. In Greenport, Peter Hallenbeck was murdered by his nephews in his home, where his spirit still lingers. Discover these and other eerie tales of hauntings in the Catskill Mountains. - Arcadia Publishing
by Lisa LaMonica
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This adorable Ombré Jack-O-Lantern is perfect for autumn and Halloween decorations! It measures 4 x 4 inches. Genevieve hand embroiders onto white cotton fabric with varied colors of embroidery floss. This piece is completely unique, one of a kind, and ready to be shipped to its’ new home!
All items on the HVNY Marketplace ship directly from their makers. The cost of shipping is included in all prices.
Lithophanes come to life by light shining from the backside to reveal a true little work of art. These 3D printed lithophanes are made in house on our machines to take your "flat" 2D photo and turn it into something that you can feel and see the depth of. Each light is scaled to the photograph but will be about 4-4.5 inches wide and tall. The print does have a curvature to it to flow around the nightlight.
After making your purchase, you will be contacted to send over a high resolution digital photo. Photos taken from a digital camera or modern cell phone work great. If the photo was taken at night, or is darker in nature, we may need to adjust the lighting to assist the details to come out. These prints take 10-15 hours to produce, and then will ship out to you via USPS First Class Parcel mail. A light sensing led night light is included with every nightlight order. We recommend keeping the nightlight in a spot that does not have prolonged direct sunlight. While the PLA plastic that is used for the print is very strong, prolonged direct sunlight (or direct heat as well) can soften the material.
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The truth is out there, hidden in remote, tucked-away corners of the Hudson River Valley…Are you ready to uncover it?
In Hauntings of the Hudson River Valley, author Vin Dacquino strives to discover the true story behind three enigmatic folk legends: Sybil Ludington, Chief Daniel Nimham, and George Denny. Each was the central figure in a dramatic series of events; each became enshrined in local lore for their actions; each has had their true story obscured; and each may have left behind a spiritual residue. Follow Dacquino as he interviews local experts, explores areas where hauntings may have occurred--such as Carmel's legendary Smalley's Inn – and digs deep into historical archives to open new windows into the lives and possible afterlives of these three mysterious characters.
Pages: 128
Publisher: Arcadia Publishing
Imprint: The History Press
Publication Date: 15th November 2007
Format: Paperback
Shipping’s included in all prices on the HVNY Marketplace
Hand-drawn illustration of the Hudson Valley’s Revolutionary War siren Sybil Ludington on 100% combed and ring-spun cotton (Heather colors contain polyester). Made to order. Price includes shipping.
In 1870, the New York Herald proclaimed that Ulster County was New York's Ulcer County due to its lawlessness and crime. The columnist supported his claim by citing that in only six months, it has been the scene of no less than four cold blooded and brutal murders, six suicides and four elopements. Hannah Markle--the bane of the Woman's Christian Temperance Union--ran a Kingston saloon where murder and violence were served alongside the whiskey. John Babbitt confessed on his deathbed to murdering Emma Brooks, and Willie Brown--reputed member of the Eastman Gang--accidentally shot his best friend. The infamous Big Bad Bill, the Gardiner Desperado, lashed out more than once and killed in a drunken rage. Discover the mayhem and murder that these and others wreaked on one of New York State's original counties.
About the author
A.J. Schenkman is a historian, educator, and author. He specializes in uncovering the “hidden” human stories of American history, particularly within the Hudson Valley. His storytelling approach to history, which he calls “History Made Seamless,” uses personal narratives over dry dates and battles. His body of work includes Wicked Ulster County and Murder and Mayhem in Ulster County, as well as broader historical investigations such as Patriots and Spies in Revolutionary New York and his 2025 release, Hispanic Americans in the Civil War. In addition to his adult non-fiction books, he has also authored a children’s book, Franklin’s Trees, which explores FDR’s passion for conservation.
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“The Sad Happy Story of Twinkle Tee Tum” which tells the story of a shy crab who is too afraid to come out of her shell. Each book is accompanied by a crab keychain which leads to dozens of early literacy resources. This book is excellent for young readers (ages 2-6 years)
When dogs cross the rainbow bridge, where do they go? According to the dogs themselves, straight to heaven-and it's even better than we imagined! In this heartwarming and hilarious picture book, the dogs have gotten permission from God to send a message back to their humans, full of tail wags, belly rubs, and endless fields of tennis balls.
With gentle humor and lots of doggy joy, Heaven Is Amazing offers comfort to anyone who's ever had to say goodbye to a furry friend. It's the perfect story for parents and children to snuggle up with-and for dog lovers of all ages to laugh, cry, and feel just a little bit better.
Bursting with delightful colors and bright illustrations, Local Baby: Hudson Valley engages babies’ attention and encourages families to explore what makes their region so great.
Cross the Bear Mountain Bridge, get spooked in Sleepy Hollow, see art at Storm King, pick apples, go sledding, and so much more! Explore the beautiful Hudson Valley with this joyfully grabbable and wonderfully local board book that is sure to bring generations together. Author: Nancy Ellwood + Author and Illustrator: Scott Leta
This granola is for the fruit lover in the house. A delicious combination of dried blueberries, cranberries and tart cherries accompanied by non-GMO whole grain oats, organic oat bran, organic flaxseed meal, raw sunflower seeds, raw pepitas, raw almonds, raw walnuts all mixed with a little bit of unsweetened fresh pressed apple juice & pure organic maple syrup to give this granola a slight crunch and flavor. Low in sugar and fat - enjoy :)
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To enjoy all that New York state roadways have to offer, jump in the car and drive to sweeping lake or ocean views, lush vineyard landscapes, or breathtaking mountain vistas. Featuring more than 1,900 miles of scenic routes and byways, this indispensable highway companion maps out unforgettable trips for exploring New York’s natural beauty. Scenic Driving New York features thirty separate drives through the Empire State with delicious ice cream stops and fun side trips along the way. Buckle up and begin your next journey!
Publisher: Globe Pequot
ISBN13: 9781493058228
Binding: Paperback / softback
Page Count: 384 Pages
Pub Date: Apr 1, 2021
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The Hudson Valley is more than just scenic vistas — it is the birthplace of American history. Go beyond the traditional guidebook to counties nestled along the east and west banks of the majestic Hudson River. From Native American settlements and Dutch colonial roots to the rise of the English, history unfolds at every turn in the river. Discover Newburgh, where Washington had his longest headquarters of the Revolution. Explore the quaint town of Kingston, home of the state’s first capital. Learn how the pivotal Battle of Saratoga turned the tide of the American Revolution. Admire the artistic heritage of Frederic Church’s Olana, the vast Gilded Age estates, and the nation’s first presidential library in Hyde Park. Join local historian A.J. Schenkman as he traces the forgotten histories and vibrant heritage of one of America’s most historic regions.
About the author
A.J. Schenkman is a historian, educator, and author. He specializes in uncovering the “hidden” human stories of American history, particularly within the Hudson Valley. His storytelling approach to history, which he calls “History Made Seamless,” uses personal narratives over dry dates and battles. His body of work includes Wicked Ulster County and Murder and Mayhem in Ulster County, as well as broader historical investigations such as Patriots and Spies in Revolutionary New York and his 2025 release, Hispanic Americans in the Civil War. In addition to his adult non-fiction books, he has also authored a children’s book, Franklin’s Trees, which explores FDR’s passion for conservation.
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Prince Nyle of Wisteria, newly 17, is set to sail the Floral Sea with Captain Oxford, his father’s lead commander. Nyle’s heart longs for adventure, but it also longs for Adelaide, his childhood best friend. However, like in any classic fairytale, Nyle’s father has forbidden him from marrying a commoner. Unbeknownst to the feuding father-son pair, Captain Oxford is plotting with King Oleander of Chrysanthemum to seize control and rule the Flower Alliance. As Oxford’s plot is revealed, Nyle, Adelaide, and a misfit band of heroes work together to stop Oxford and restore peace. In part two, King Oleander’s son, Henbane, finds a piece of a treasure map that will lead to answers surrounding his mother’s death. Theo, a pacifist from Poppy (the island of war), and Emma, a healer from Amaranth, get caught in the treasure hunt. King Alastair of Poppy seeks the lost treasure for himself. With the democracy of the Flower Alliance once again at risk, Theo and Emma team up with familiar friends to find the treasure.
Paperbacks & hardcovers are printed on demand. Paperbacks are $26, and Hardcovers are $32.
Every summer, Erica Margot and her family head to Maine for a month. This summer is different — not only is it the summer before her senior year, but her twin brother’s best friend, Cameron, is tagging along. And he’s kind of hot. But she doesn’t have time for romance, does she? Can she be a strong, independent woman in STEM but also desperately want a boyfriend? While checking off annual family traditions, Erica Margot tries to grapple with who she is — and how to put it into a college application essay — along with her growing feelings for Cameron. As a straight-A student, she’s constantly afraid of coming across as high-maintenance and arrogant instead of determined, and she’s scared Cameron will think he’s holding her back. Despite her sorta-kinda-high-maintenance-ness, Erica Margot’s family vacation is full of silliness, inside jokes, and an absurd amount of ice cream. And maybe that’s exactly what she needs to figure out what life is all about, and to find her place in between the stars.
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One mountain, three victims. Strangers and old friends spend the night on Mount Macabre, but not all of them make it home. The local Sheriff navigates difficult personalities, decodes lies, and unravels secrets on the haunted summit she knows all too well. How long will it take, and how many lives will be ruined in the process?
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Escape, in your head at least, to the riverside with this 100% chino cotton twill low-profile hat with adjustable strap and antique buckle. Made to order. Shipping’s free.
Acrylic on canvas
16x16 inches
Shipping or local pick-up available