There are two types of people, those who fear ticks and those who shrug them off. The difference between these people is understanding. Half have done their research on ticks and know how to feel about these pests. The other half let their assumptions dictate their perception. Want to know which side you fall on? Here are some facts about ticks so you can know whether you should be concerned if you are bitten.
Ticks Are Hard To Spot
Ticks are difficult to spot, right up to the point where they bury their head under a person’s skin. Up until this point, these pests hide inside thick underbrush, in the grass, and in other areas that provide them with cover. Ticks use these sheltered areas to get into position to get onto a host. Because they lack mobility, these pests need things like tall grass, thick foliage, and hanging leaves in order to get closer to their prey. From these locations, ticks wait until people or animals pass by and then transfer over, using their upper limbs.
Ticks Are Blood-Feeding Pests
As you may have already guessed, ticks are blood-feeding pests. They need the blood of humans or animals to transition through each stage of their life cycle. Some species go through as many as three developmental stages before becoming adults, which sometimes takes years. Most often ticks will die before reaching adulthood as getting onto a host and feeding is not a simple task.
Are Ticks Dangerous?
Have you ever heard the old adage, “You are what you eat”? Although silly to say to a human, this saying could not be more true for ticks. When these pests consume blood from an infected mammal or bird, they become a vector for said infection. Anyone that is bitten after a tick feeds on an infected animal or human is at risk of contracting a sickness that could stick with them for life. Some common diseases ticks spread include Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and babesiosis.
What Should You Do About The Ticks On Your Property
Ticks live in thick undergrowth and are difficult to spot outdoors. For this reason, it is difficult to directly handle these pests around properties. The best way to handle these pests is by changing factors around your property to make it less attractive and accessible. Here are some practical ways to prevent ticks around your property and reduce your chances of being bitten.
- Eliminate sources of water build-up around your property.
- Apply insect repellant on your body or clothing before going outside.
- Clear out thick undergrowth and remove organic debris from your property.
- Trim your grass at least once a week and more often during times of heavy rain.
- Tuck your pants into your socks when traveling through dense undergrowth outdoors.
- Avoid tall grass and other potentially tick-infested areas.
The Absolute Best Solution To Tick Problems
If you would rather not apply insect repellant to your body and tuck your pants into your socks every time you go outside to stop ticks from biting you, we have a better solution. At Alta Pest Control we offer treatments designed to eliminate ticks from properties and to keep them away during all seasons of the year. If you would like to enjoy your yard without having to worry about being bitten, let us help. Our team is committed to our community and has everything your property and home needs to effectively fight back against pests.
Call us today to request your free inspection and get your home the quality services it requires.
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