I am familiar with bears and ticks. I grew up in one of the least populated counties in the United States in the mountains, heavy forests, on the Western slope of Colorado.
I almost tripped over a bear cub once and turned around and went back into my house quickly. When I peeked out the door I saw two cubs and momma bear running off around the corner of my house. I knew not to mess with cubs unless I wanted momma to try to kill me.
I also had a really big black bear walk through my yard decades later when I lived in the area with my wife and kids.
I've been stalked by mountain lions twice.
I actually miss that. I prefer that to being stalked by junkies, and asshats.
Plenty of those in the hills, too.
Crime is pretty low in the outskirts due to everybody being armed and willing to defend themselves.
It really is a nice part of the country.
Yep. I am looking forward to that. We plan to increase our arms once we are there. :)