UNDERSTANDING TICKS

Ticks are external parasites that feed off of mammals, birds, reptiles, and other animals’ blood as a food source, carrying various diseases that pose a significant threat to both people and animals alike. Each species of tick has different colors depending on its species; adults are about the size of sunflower seeds while larvae may reach less than one millimeter long! Some common species include the American Dog Tick, Lone Star Tick, and Black-Legged Tick – each tick has four life stages that progress through Egg, Larva Nymph, and finally adult.

Tick Size

Tick size varies significantly across the different life stages and species. Here are some general size ranges:

Larvae: Approximately 0.5 mm.

Nymphs: Between 1-2 mm.

Adult Females: 3-5 mm unfed, up to 10 mm or more when engorged.

Adult Males: 2-3 mm.

Ticks can be difficult to spot due to their small size, especially in the larval and nymph stages. Regular tick checks and preventive measures are essential, particularly in tick-prone areas, to minimize the risk of tick-borne diseases.

DIET AND HABITS

Ticks can typically be found in wooded areas with heavy vegetation; certain species require moisture for survival. Both male and female ticks feed off blood from mammals, birds, and reptiles – although each tick species typically preferentially feeds off one specific host; they will still consume whatever blood source is available – including livestock, deer, humans, dogs, and cats!

REPRODUCTION

Tick life cycles involve four stages, with eggs becoming larvae, which hatch into six-legged larvae; at each step thereafter there are eight legs on both nymphs and adults. Ticks consume blood in all stages of their life cycle. Pathogens, or disease-causing organisms, can be transmitted through the different stages of a tick’s life.

TICK BITES AND DISEASES

Ticks carry serious diseases. Since 2002, over 23,000 human cases of Lyme disease have been documented by scientists. Lyme disease, caused by a spirochete, affects humans, pet dogs, and wildlife. The hard tick responsible for this disease has a two-year cycle and commonly attaches to the human body. After feeding, ticks drop to the ground in search of protective areas, which should be treated with an effective pesticide. Tick bites can also cause other diseases like Q fever, Colorado tick fever, babesiosis, and monocytic ehrlichiosis. Symptoms of tick-borne diseases include flu-like symptoms and a red rash around the bite area.

TICK INFESTATION AND PREVENTION

Signs of a tick infestation include the presence of ticks themselves or medical symptoms from tick-borne diseases. Symptoms vary among individuals and should be diagnosed by a medical professional. Ticks often hide in homes, so repairing gaps and keeping grass cut short can help prevent infestations. Disposing of nesting materials is crucial, as ticks can infest these items. Treating tick infestations differs from treating flea infestations and should be handled by a professional.

PROFESSIONAL TICK CONTROL

For effective tick control, contact Get Em Out Wildlife Control. Their experts are trained to manage tick infestations with utmost care to reduce infection risks. If removing ticks at home, use forceps or tweezers, and ensure hands are clean. Avoid damaging the tick specimen during removal. Once removed, clean your hands thoroughly and seek medical advice if necessary. If tick infestations persist, don’t hesitate to call a professional. They will inspect your home and develop a comprehensive removal plan. Trusting qualified professionals ensures thorough and safe tick eradication.