Things that go ‘Ouch’

Like many national parks close to large urban areas, Lamington is under pressure - but with a little care, courtesy and preparation by its present users, it will retain its beauty and value for future generations. It is a precious place, and... although this area has no `man-eaters', there are a few nasties, both plant and animal which you may encounter. However, just because they sting or bite does not mean that you have the right or the duty to kill them. Be aware of them, and respect their ability to defend themselves. Remember that all plants and animals are protected within national parks.

Plants

Stinging trees (Dendrocnide spp.) pictured above and Stinging nettles (Urtica spp.)

These are occasionally encountered along walking tracks, usually where the forest canopy has been disturbed by tree falls. Stinging trees have large. almost round, softly hairy leaves up to 30cm in diameter, often with small holes where they have been eaten by insects. They have a sting very similar to nettles (often more intense), and can raise large welts on sensitive skin. Reactions may be quite severe in allergy cases. The sting may persist for many days, and will often recur if the area is washed. The sting is caused by various acids contained in hollow fibres on the leaves and stems. These fibres break off after penetrating the skin, and water will flush more of the irritant from the fibre into the skin. Shaving the stung area with a safety razor will remove most of the fibres, and analgesic cream will provide some relief.

Lawyer vine (`Wait-a-while')

There are several plants known by these names, the most common being Calamus muelleri, a climbing palm. It has very sharp thorns on the stem and leaves and on then whip-like appendages which assist in climbing. Although non-poisonous, the thorns are difficult to remove and wounds may become infected. these plants are not often encountered along walking tracks.

Animals

Leeches

Leeches are common in rainforest particularly after rain and near watercourses. They are not dangerous, even though they look as if they should be! They can be pulled off with few ill effects other than severe itching and sometimes local irritation in susceptible individuals. The bite will bleed for some time due to an anti-clotting agent which the leech injects. An analgesic cream will ease the itch and a Band-Aid or dressing will assist the wound to heal. There is absolutely no need to kill leeches!

Ants

Jumping ants and Bulldog ants are the two most common stinging ants in the park. Jumping ants are purplish-black, about 13mm long, and build low mound nests. They will attack anything which comes near the nest, often jumping 150mm or more. They are very hard to dissuade once aroused, and retreat is the best form of defence against them. They have an abdominal sting which inflicts a painful wound. Bulldog ants are less aggressive than jumpers, but also inflict a painful wound. They are conspicuous by their large size, up to 20mm long and their orange-red heads and bodies. Again analgesic cream will provide some relief. All ants play an important role in recycling nutrients and there is no need to kill them.

Ticks

Ticks are often encountered in summer, especially in grassy open forest. If left untreated, they can cause serious illness, particularly in children. Everyone should check themselves thoroughly for at least six days after visiting a potentially tick infested area, with special attention given to armpits, groin.

Dingoes

Generally dingoes go about their lives and stay clear of people. Unhabituated dingoes have a natural fear of people and shy away. From time to time, dingoes may come close and some encounters can turn to tragedy. Stay alert and stay calm.

If you feel threatened:

• Stand still at your full height and fold your arms across your chest.
• Face the dingo, then calmly back away.
• If you are with another person, stand back to back.
• Confidently call for help.
• Wait until the dingo or dingoes are gone before you continue on your way.
• Do not run or wave your arms.

Snakes

Meeting these characters in the bush can be scary! Remember that snakes are just as frightened of you as you are of them. Stand well away, avoid aggravating them and give them time and room to get out of your way.

The accepted method of snakebite treatment is as follows:

• Crepe bandages should be applied over the bite site and as much of the limb as possible (70% of bites occur on the legs).
• Pressure should be similar to that used for a sprained ankle, the whole limb should then be immobilized with splints.
• If the bite occurs on the face or body, firm pressure on the site will delay spread of the venom
• Minimise movement and exertion, stay calm.