Ticks

Ticks are tiny little parasites that feed on the blood of humans and animals. In addition to being disgusting, ticks are carries of a debilitating disease known as Lyme disease. Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that can lead to rheumatoid arthritis, fatigue and numerous other problems. In the US alone, more than 300,000 cases of Lyme disease are diagnosed each year.

Tick Appearance/Identification

There are multiple tick species, and they vary in color. Adult ticks may be smaller than a sunflower seed, while larvae often measure less than 1 mm. The most common types of ticks include the American dog tick, the lone star tick and the deer tick, which is the most common carrier of Lyme disease.

Behavior, Diet & Habitats

Ticks are most often found in wooded and heavily vegetated areas. Both males and females of most species feed on the blood of birds, reptiles and mammals, including humans. They are most commonly known to bite humans, dogs, cats, deer and livestock.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of a tick consists of four stages – egg, larval, nymphal and adult. During the larval stage, the only have six legs, but they have eight leg during the later stages. Ticks feed on blood during all stages of the life cycle and can transmit disease at any time. It may take up to 3 years for a tick to complete its life cycle.

Signs of an Infestation

The most common sign of a tick infestation is seeing the ticks themselves. If you or a family member has been bitten, you may notice secondary signs in the form of medical symptoms from fluids and diseases transmitted by ticks.

How to Get Rid of Ticks

Ticks found on people and pets require cautions removal. The tick needs to be grasped with tweezers behind the head and pulled away from the skin slowly. Make sure mouthparts are completely removed from the skin.

Getting rid of ticks on your property or inside your home requires the help of a pest control professional. For helping dealing with ticks, call now.