Are You Ticked Off? Important Information About Ticks

Humans are not the only creatures that enjoy the comforts of a subtropical climate. As temperatures rise, so do the unfortunate encounters with ticks. What can seem to us to be uncomfortable heat is it exactly what ticks long for. Here are some important facts you should know about these parasitic pests.

1. Ticks are close relatives to spiders and mites. These parasites have eight legs and must feed on the blood of various animals in order to reproduce. They can be found almost anywhere, but are especially common in heavily wooded areas or vegetative zones. Contrary to the popular belief that they dive from trees, ticks typically lie in grass, plants, or trees and wait for a potential host to pass by. Once they do, the tick will attempt to latch itself and begin its feast.

2. Ticks aren't just annoying pests, they also pose serious potential health risks. Among the varying species of ticks found in Florida there is an array of diseases that they carry. Rocky Mountain Fever, Tularemia, and Lyme disease are just a few of the ailments spread to humans and dogs by ticks. These conditions can potentially result in paralysis and even death if left untreated.

3. In addition to the ability to transmit various diseases to their hosts, ticks can easily be transported. Once a tick latches on to a host, it can travel with the host and begin a new infestation wherever it decides to get off. It is important to always check your animals and yourself for ticks, especially when returning from heavily wooded areas. If a tick is found on you or your pet, it must be removed as soon as possible in order to prevent infection and infestation.

4. The worst part is that ticks appear to be increasing in numbers due to weather conditions. The winters, which normally aid in controlling the tick population, have been increasingly mild. Ticks have been left to survive and thrive. Unless these weather patterns change, you can expect to see increasing numbers of ticks in the future.

With the potential dangers associated with ticks, it is important to be educated on detection and prevention. If a tick infestation is suspected in or around a home, and personal attempts to get rid of them are unsuccessful, it is crucial that the help of a professional pest control company is utilized.