Im hiking the GA section starting June 4th going to NC. I was hoping someone could help me decide if i will need my netting for under my tarp. I don't like setting it up, or carrying it for that matter, but if the flies or mosquitoes are bad it makes for a much better nights sleep. The temps at night have been low enough recently for them to most likely not be a problem sleeping. But some first hand information would make me feel much better. Thanks in advance for the help.

Hey y'all! We encountered a timber rattler on a trail this weekend. It went from stretched out and wary to coiled and huffy pretty quickly. We backed off and waited about 15 minutes to see if it would move, but it didn't. We decided the falls would still be there on our next trip and called it a day. Obviously, we won't be able to do that on our AT thru hike. I won't kill a snake just for impeding my hike, but what would have been a safe option for getting past it? The simple act of lifting a stick rattled the leaves enough to cause it to coil, rattle, and lift its head for a strike.

Just heard the first wood thrush of the year in Harpers Ferry. OK, not Harpers Ferry proper--just over the town line, on the edge of Harpers Ferry National Historical Park where there are bands of protected woods. And, I wasn't home yesterday evening so I could have missed them. Here's my very unofficial tally of the years I have made note:

1998 - April 29
2004 - April 22
2009 - April 29
2010 - May 1
2011 - April 25
2012 - April 22


Who else has heard them this year, and where?

I think my first date -- if you could call it that -- was an expedition to call in owls with a very pretty girl and a tape recorder in the 70's. I didn't get any at the time.I have had some success in the years since, but was wondering if calling them in and lighting them up is frowned upon. I am sure it is, but to what degree?With a Sibley's guide on my mini, and a very powerful AA Fenix it will be easier than ever. But I don't want to go to hell.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/w...s-man/2074145/ They don't look fierce.

This poll asks if you have seen a fox along the AT.

If so, please share details. Was it a red fox or grey? Healthy looking? What time of day? Etc.

I am new to the AT. I am planning a section hike in PA between Duncannon and Port Clinton and was wondering if it is necessary to bear bag in this area?