When moving to Florida for the first time, many people are often surprised by the bugs more than the weather.

Jacksonville is also a warm and humid area, so you frequently encounter creatures like mosquitoes, fire ants, and cockroaches.

The most common of these is definitely the mosquito. They tend to increase significantly from June to September when it's hot and rainy.

If water collects for several days in plant saucers, buckets, or drains around the house, it can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes.

In Florida, mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus can occur, so it's a good idea to use insect repellent containing DEET or Picaridin when going for evening walks or near wooded areas. It's also safer to keep an eye on children playing outside for long periods.

There's also the famous Lovebug in Florida. In the past, they were commonly seen stuck to car windshields in spring and late summer, but recently, people say they aren't as prevalent as before. They don't bite or pose a venomous threat, so there's no need to worry too much.

One bug that can give you a scare at home is the large cockroach known as the Palmetto Bug. They are so big that you might jump when you first see one. However, in Florida, they don't only appear because of dirty homes; they can also come indoors when it rains heavily or the weather changes. This is why many homes seal gaps around doors and pipes and regularly have pest control services.

You need to be cautious of Fire Ants in your yard. If a child steps on a mound of dirt in the grass, they can get bitten by several ants at once. The bites can be painful and may cause small blisters. People who are severely allergic to bee or ant venom can experience difficulty breathing or systemic allergic reactions, so they should seek emergency treatment immediately.

In Jacksonville, it's important to be aware of wetlands and waterways as much as the bugs. There are many swamps, ponds, and creeks around the city. In Florida, you always have to consider the possibility of alligators appearing in these freshwater areas.

It's best to avoid reaching into the water if a ball goes into a park pond or a golf course water hazard. Especially at dusk and nighttime, it's safer to stay away from the water's edge. Even dogs can be at risk if they are let off the leash near the water. Just because you don't see an alligator doesn't mean there isn't one.

When walking through swamps or wooded paths, you should also be mindful of ticks. In areas with tall grass, wearing long pants and sneakers and checking your legs, waist, and armpits after returning can be helpful. Since there are snakes, it's best to avoid sticking your hands into bushes or walking in sandals in places where visibility is poor.

The beach has its own set of precautions. With Jacksonville Beach, Neptune Beach, and Atlantic Beach nearby, we often go there in the summer, but the biggest concern is actually rip currents. Even if the ocean looks calm, there can be areas where the water flows quickly outwards.

If you get caught in a rip current, swimming straight back to the beach can tire you out quickly. The basic response is to swim parallel to the shoreline to escape the current and then head back to shore. If possible, swim in areas with lifeguards and always check the beach warning flags.

Many people worry about sharks, but in reality, you're more likely to be concerned about rip currents, high waves, lightning, and strong sunlight. On days when jellyfish are present, be careful walking barefoot along the water's edge.

Ultimately, the natural environment in Jacksonville isn't so much scary as it is a place where you need to learn a bit about the Florida lifestyle. You manage mosquitoes and fire ants in your yard, cockroach invasions in your home, and be cautious of alligators, snakes, and ticks in the wetlands, while also checking for rip currents and warning flags at the beach.

If you make these a habit, you can live without too much trouble. In fact, living in Jacksonville, with its proximity to the ocean, rivers, and wetlands, can be a lot of fun.