What do blacklegged ticks look like?
Blacklegged ticks, also called deer ticks, have relatively small, flat, oval-shaped bodies. They are reddish-brown to black in color. Like other arachnids, they have eight legs. Once engorged, female blacklegged ticks may appear larger and darker.
Blacklegged tick larva and nymphs look like adult ticks but are much smaller.
When are blacklegged ticks most active?
What diseases can blacklegged ticks transmit?
Blacklegged ticks are known to transmit several diseases, with Lyme disease being the most common. They can also transmit anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and sometimes other diseases.
What are the symptoms of Lyme disease from a blacklegged tick bite?
Symptoms of Lyme disease run the gamut, but can include the notorious bull’s-eye rash, fever, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, and joint aches. If not promptly or effectively treated, Lyme disease can cause more serious issues related to the heart, nerves, and brain.
Are blacklegged ticks common in South Carolina?
According to Clemson University’s website, blacklegged ticks do have a presence across South Carolina, however they are not a major problem. The Lone star tick is the most collected tick in our state.
Where are blacklegged ticks found?
Blacklegged ticks are often found in wooded and grassy areas, where they wait for hosts to pass by. Although they are more likely to be found in tall grass, it is not unheard of to find these ticks in lawns, around fence lines, and areas where lawn transitions to woods.
What do blacklegged ticks eat?
Female blacklegged ticks must have a blood meal at every stage to survive and to reproduce. Male ticks also feed on blood, but do not need as much as females to survive. Common hosts include people, dogs, deer, mice, and other mammals, as well as birds.
How can I control blacklegged ticks in my yard?
While there are plenty of natural tick control methods recommend across the internet, and DIY tick sprays available to purchase, we recommend contacting a pest control company for professional tick control for best results.
How do I get rid of blacklegged ticks?
If you’ve been bitten by a tick, or suspect a blacklegged tick infestation on your property or inside your home, contact Harris Pest Control. Our locally owned pest control company offers affordable tick control in Florence, Myrtle Beach, and Kingstree, as well as throughout the Pee Dee and Grand Strand regions that includes targeted tick spraying with proven results! Reach out today, and let our team of pest control specialists help you get back to enjoying your yard!
How can I prevent blacklegged ticks?
To make your property less attractive to blacklegged ticks, and to prevent tick bites, try
implementing the follow tick prevention tips:
- Keep your lawn well-maintained
- Clear away weeds, tall grasses, and dense vegetation
- Pick up yard debris
- Do not feed wildlife
- Avoid walking in areas with tall grasses or are wooded and brushy
- Stay on trails and paths when hiking
- Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants tucked into socks when spending time outside
- Check yourself, your family, and pets for ticks after being outdoors
- Discuss tick treatments with your veterinarian
