4 Interesting Tick Facts You Might Not Know
Posted by Mosquito Squad
December 20, 2023
Winter is upon us and the insects that plague us during the spring and summer seem far away, but there are only a few months before we must contend with these pests again. Ticks, especially in our region, are a significant threat to our daily outdoor enjoyment as well as to our health. Tiny and elusive, ticks are secretive parasites that are responsible for the growing levels of tick-borne diseases in the United States. Because they are so tiny, ticks can be difficult to notice but it pays dividends to know as much as you can about these minuscule creatures. So, let’s get into the basics to understand what ticks are and how they operate!
Things to know about ticks
1. Ticks are not insects!
Contrary to popular belief, ticks aren’t to be grouped with the vast majority of other creatures that live in your yard. Ticks, in fact, are more closely related to spiders, which are classified as arachnids. Ticks are ancient creatures, so old that one was discovered encased in amber and dates back over 90 million years!
2. Ticks are like vampires, but they are not immortal
True parasites, ticks rely on the blood and fluids from other organisms to survive. Unlike vampires, though, they only live a few years in the wild and tend to remain near the ground where other animals frequent.
3. A deer tick must be attached for at least 24 hours to transmit Lyme disease
While you might think that ticks transmit Lyme disease instantaneously, this is not the case. You have around 24 hours to find a tick and remove it before having real concerns about contracting Lyme disease.
4. Some ticks are smaller than sesame seeds
Nymph ticks, the pre-adult tick stage, are incredibly tiny and are the main force behind Lyme disease’s transmission. Ticks will seek out protected areas of our bodies like the armpits, scalp, and nether regions to hide. Unfortunately, this behavior makes them more difficult to find. So, when conducting ticks checks, make sure to check every spot on your skin. That minuscule dot could be tick, not a blemish!
Long Island tick control is an essential for spring and summer
For nearly 20 years, Mosquito Squad has worked tirelessly to ensure clients are defended against ticks and the diseases they can carry. With our innovative tick treatments, we can guarantee significant reductions in the tick population on your property.
Ticks are sometimes misunderstood, but they are undoubtedly dangerous. Take control of your property with Mosquito Squad of Long Island tick control. Give us a call at (631) 203-1252!