Ticks

What are Ticks?

The eight-legged parasitic arachnids called Ticks can be found in the same family as spiders, mites and scorpions. Ticks have no wings and a unique oval-shaped body. They have two sensory structures on their heads (palps and chops) which help them find hosts. A barbed structure (hypostome), which they use to attach themselves to their host for food, is also available.

The tick color can vary depending on the species. Tick larvae can grow to a length of less than one mm and can grow up to 1 cm in length if they are engorged with blood. Adults can also be smaller than a sunflower seeds. Ticks only have six legs in their larval stage, and eight during the nymphal or adult stages.

What kinds of Ticks are there?

dark red tick on the skin of a human

Behavior and Habitat of Ticks

Habitat

Many species are found in areas with dense vegetation and wooded areas. Certain species need moisture to survive. The species may survive indoors in cracks, crevices or the burrow of their host.

Diet

Males and females of most species eat blood from birds, mammals, and reptiles. Although each species has a preferred host for their food, most will eat whatever is available. Bite is a common behavior of ticks.

  • Dogs and cats
  • Deer
  • Humans
  • Livestock

Life Cycle

Ticks eat blood meals at all stages of their lives. Pathogens are organisms that can cause disease in animals and can be passed on through each stage of a tick's lifespan. There are four stages to the tick's life cycle:

  1. Egg
  2. Larval
  3. Nymphal
  4. Adult

Fleas vs. Ticks

Ticks and fleas are parasitic, living on larger hosts than they are. Fleas and ticks both feed on the blood of their hosts and transmit various diseases. Despite the fact that neither fleas nor ticks prefer humans as primary hosts, both parasites have been known to feed on human blood in the absence any other food sources.

Ticks

Adult ticks have four pairs of legs, just like other arachnids. As larvae, however, they have six legs. After molting, they get their fourth pair. They do not live in specific areas, but rather they prefer to be near their hosts. The pests can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and homes. All stages of the tick's life cycle depend on blood, including hatching.

Fleas

Fleas are six-legged insects. Fleas are not able to fly and have no wings. The flea's flat bodies and long legs have been adapted to allow for impressive jumping skills as well as the ability to maneuver through dense fur and hair unimpeded. There are many species of fleas that live in homes around the globe. The complete metamorphosis occurs in the form of an egg, larval, pupa, and adult flea. Only adults eat blood.

Diseases

Ticks can transmit serious diseases such as lyme disease and colorado tick fever. Learn more about ticks and how you can prevent them.

How to get rid of my Ticks problem?

Ticks can be classified as a variety of parasitic arachnids, with many behavioral characteristics. If Ticks become an issue, contact your local Alta Pest Control professional to request an inspection.

How Alta Pest Control Protects Your Home From Pests

All of our treatment plans are customized to your home and yard. We do this to ensure that you get the exact coverage you need to keep your home safe. All of our technicians and inspectors are experts in their field, so you can be sure that you are getting top-tier protection.

01
Inspection

One of our expert technicians will inspect every inch of your home and business for pest activity. Then they will create a custom plan based on their findings.

02
Initial Service

Once your custom plan is created, we will treat your home and yard to give you immediate relief from pests. Then, we will create a boundary around your property to prevent more pests from entering.

03
Follow Ups

After the initial service, we will conduct regular maintenance to ensure that your pest problems remain solved. We will also conduct free inspections for problem pests, such as termites.

04
Alta Guarantee

When it comes to pest control, we put our money where our mouth is. If we treat your home, and you're still seeing pests, we'll come back and retreat for free. We'll always have your back.

Ticks Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Ticks dangerous?

Ticks can spread many diseases to animals and people. Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria is transmitted to Lyme disease by blacklegged ticks. Lone Star ticks transmit diseases such as ehrlichiosis and tularemia.

Do I have a Ticks problem?

Because ticks are constantly introduced to properties by wild animals, they can be difficult to control. Ticks cannot fly or jump so they travel on the backs and legs of their hosts. Once they are on your property they will hide in damp, dense areas and wait for a new host.

Where will I find Ticks?

Ticks can be found outdoors and many of them don't thrive indoors. For most species to hatch and develop, they must lay their eggs in moist soil. Ticks like tall grass and wooded areas. They also love to be near fences or along roadsides.

How do I get rid of Ticks?

Alta Pest Control is a family-owned business that can get rid of ticks in your home and workplace. Our fast response times give you peace of mind that your pest problems are solved and won't come back. Our highly trained pest control specialists provide high-quality pest management services using only the best products to eradicate ticks from your home. Find out why Alta Pest Control is the preferred pest control company for your neighborhood. Give us a shout today!

How can I prevent Ticks in the future?

You can prevent tick problems by partnering Alta Pest Control.

  • Your veterinarian can help you put your pet on a year-round tick prevention program.
  • Install a stone fence between your lawn and wooded areas.
  • Cut your lawn short and make sure shrubs and bushes are well-trimmed.
  • If you have bird feeders that attract wild animals, take them out.
  • Vacuum all areas where your pet spends most of their time.
  • To prevent wild animals getting into your home, seal any gaps around your exterior.

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