Ticks are arachnids, a category that also includes spiders, mites, and other types of potentially dangerous pests. Data indicates that ticks exist in hundreds of species in the world. Ticks are small creatures that feed on the blood of mammals, birds, and many others.
There are two general categories of ticks, which includes “hard” ticks and “soft” ticks. Hard ticks most commonly feed on pets, humans, and some wildlife and have a durable exterior and appear similar to a flattened seed when not engorged with blood. Soft ticks, which usually feed on bats and birds, lack the hard exterior shield and often appear similar to the shape of a raisin.
How long can a tick live? Ticks progress through four distinct phases beginning as an egg. Once emerging from eggs, ticks require a blood meal before entering a stage as larvae. Immature ticks (nymphs) eventually reach adulthood, which ranges from two to three years, depending on the species.
Are you struggling with ticks? An experienced Fort Myers pest control professional will assist home and business owners in need of effective tick treatment.
How Common Ticks Get Around
Ticks have sensory capabilities that allow for detecting the heat and odors that potential hosts generate. As creatures lacking the ability to fly or leap, ticks usually access a host through a process called “questing,” where they climb onto the target while they pass.
Where do ticks lay eggs? Once ticks enter a home, they might lay eggs and expand their presence. Females might place eggs in crevices along or beneath baseboards, gaps around windows or door moldings, or in carpeted areas.
Dangerous Diseases Ticks Are Known To Spread
What diseases do ticks carry? Ticks are known carriers of tularemia, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, Lyme disease, and many other significant health concerns.
Those with dogs should know that they are vulnerable to tick-related diseases. Today, vaccination is a viable option for preventing most tick-borne diseases in dogs; however, although a vaccine might prevent illness, a dog might still carry a tick indoors, placing other occupants of a home at risk.
Useful Tips To Protect Yourself From Ticks While Out And About
Are you wondering how to prevent tick bites when venturing outdoors? Some of the best practices for protecting against ticks include the following:
- When participating in outdoor activities, wear long-sleeved shirts and full-length pants that will limit the possibility of direct exposure to the skin.
- When hiking, you and your dog should avoid walking through areas of high grass, weeds, or similar vegetation where ticks hide.
- In accordance with CDC recommendations, consider applying a product containing 0.5 permethrin to all clothing and other belongings.
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends skin repellant products containing DEET, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
- Remember to always inspect your body and pets for any ticks before re-entering the home.
Keep in mind that all household pets should remain on a treatment plan that prevents fleas and ticks as directed by a licensed veterinarian.
Too many individuals that detect the presence of ticks or similar types of potentially harmful pests will try do-it-yourself options sold by internet retailers and in local stores. Although taking the initiative is usually a commendable response, many of these efforts prove unsuccessful for various reasons. Many of the store-bought products create only short-term results, as they may effectively eliminate nymphs and adult ticks, but the existing eggs soon develop, and the problem persists.
Why is having a professional tick inspection so important when you suspect a problem with ticks? A licensed pest control professional understands the nature of tick infestations and will look in hard-to-reach places for any evidence of deeply entrenched ticks. A detailed property assessment is an integral part of creating a truly customized solution in sharp contrast to the many “one-size-fits-all” store-bought products.
The Most Effective Way To Keep Ticks Away From Your Yard
The experts with Stat Pest Control receive the latest training regarding the best treatment options for the types of ticks in Florida. In addition to ticks, we will provide superior treatment for those facing infestations involving ants, termites, cockroaches, and many other bothersome critters. As a local company, we also operate in a manner that ensures environmental safety.
The management team with Stat Pest Control clearly recognizes the importance of providing superior customer service, which remains an integral reason for our continued growth and success. We also stand behind the quality of our work performance with a satisfaction guarantee.
Further evidence of our enduring, client-focused approach is that we maintain an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau.
Contact our office today regarding a property inspection.
