Let’s face it—bugs are part of the great Canadian outdoors. Whether you’re deep in Algonquin or just kicking back at a campsite an hour outside the city, you’re bound to run into a few (or a few hundred) flying friends. But not all bugs are out at once—and knowing which ones to expect can help you come prepared.

So, what’s in season and when? Let’s break it down:

🦟 May to Early June: Mosquito Madness

Welcome to mosquito prime time. These little guys love warm, wet spring weather—so after the first real thaw, you can bet they’re coming out in full force.

Pro tip: Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk. Pack repellent, wear light long sleeves, and consider a mosquito net for your tent or hammock.

🐜 June to August: Ants, Wasps & Black Flies

Once things heat up, it’s black fly season (mostly in northern areas), and ants and wasps start to show up too. Black flies are sneaky—they bite and leave a mark. Wasps, on the other hand, just wanna crash your snacks.

Pro tip: Skip scented lotions and sugary drinks. Keep food sealed and trash tightly closed.

🕷️ July to September: Spiders, Ticks, and the Return of the Skeeters

Spiders are generally harmless but love to hang out near woodpiles and under tarps. Ticks? They’re the ones to watch. They like grassy, brushy areas and can carry Lyme disease, so do a tick check after any hike.

Pro tip: Tuck your pants into your socks (yes, it’s a look), and use tick-specific repellents like those with permethrin.

🐝 September to October: The Late Buzzers

Wasps and hornets tend to get more aggressive in early fall as food sources dwindle. But the good news? Most bugs are winding down by mid-October.

So, What’s the Move?

Bugs shouldn’t keep you from enjoying nature. Knowing what to expect means you can gear up right—with repellents, protective clothing, and maybe even a screened shelter for those buggier sites.

Stay tuned for our next post where we rank the best bug repellents so you don’t have to stand in the DEET aisle feeling lost.