Surviving Mosquitoes in Deep Woods and Swamps- Bushcraft / Survival

Mosquitoes, black flies, & other biting flies- It's a serious subject. Many people avoid wilderness areas because they are so bothered by the bugs. Lost hikers have actually contemplated suicide because of the mosquitoes. Many people depend on insect repellent but there is a better way. Bug sprays can help, but it shouldn't be our first line of defense. We have to understand that mosquitoes, black flies, and other insects are animals. Like all animals, there are things they don't like, and things they can't do. These flies operate in a narrow temperature window. Find a place to hot or too cold for them, and they will not be there (at least not for long). They prefer dark or shade and hate the full sun. Then don't like a breeze, and can't deal with strong wind. They swam before trying to find a place to bite. For this reason they have trouble biting a moving target. Though these flies may have tiny "brains," they do have behavior. We can understand the psychology of the animal, and use that against them. They go for the highest part of the body. This is because the head is an easier target. Many animals have thinner skin on the head. Also the eyes and ears are soft targets for biting flies. So wear a hat! Or at least a bandanna. Cover your skin. Wear long pants, if you can in the heat. Or try shorts with tall socks or gaiters. Think about wearing gloves. You might want to wear a head net in some conditions. I just cut a section of netting from old, discarded tents. (Got to love free gear!) Be sure to cover your skin when sleeping. Smoke keeps them away. Do you know how to make a low, smoky fire? If you stand near the fire, the bugs will leave you alone. They won't fly into the smoke. Then, when you walk away, you will smell like smoke. That keeps them away, too. If you are presently irritated by biting flies, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Many people have found that over years of time their bodies develop a resistance to bug bites. Personally, mosquito and black flies do not bother me anywhere near as much as most people. So go out and spend time in the woods! Lastly- let's consider your own psychology. Many people are afraid in the woods. It's a new environment for them. They freak out over bug bites. I believe mosquitoes and black flies are attracted by the scent of fear. Perhaps they are designed to feed on animals in distress. So learn how to be at peace in the woods.

While hiking through the woods to make this video, I found a beautiful cave by chance. The presence of certain stone artifacts made me think it might be held in high esteem by indigenous people. So I admired the beauty of the cave, and moved on to film elsewhere.

Видео Surviving Mosquitoes in Deep Woods and Swamps- Bushcraft / Survival канала Doug Shoe Bushcraft