Hi Tweeters,

Thanks to those that replied to me the votes are in and DEET is the repellent of choice. It is to be used on clothing and EXPOSED skin only. One person pointed out to be careful around your optics because it can melt rubber:-0 !!

Two brands mentioned Ultrathon time released DEET and Jungle Juice DEET from REI. No one said any formula was easy on the skin...darn.

Permithrin was mentioned the second most often, especially to treat birding clothing. It can last a few weeks on the clothes even through washing.

Two other products mentioned were Skintastic from a person with arctic mosquito experience and Avon repellant. Active ingredients for these two products weren't mentioned.

In the suggestion department besides repellants was to use netted clothing (available at REI and probably at other sporting goods stores), and to wear more clothing in general to provide a barrier against the mosquitos. Makes sense to me.

Another source I looked at that had some very good guidelines was the CDC website (www.cdc.gov/travel/bugs.htm). This website contains some very good information regarding strengths of DEET and the most judicious way to use it. Also important information for use for children.

Now on to look at some birds without bugs!

Kathy

Kathy Andrich
Roosting in Renton
kjandrich at netscape.net

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