Leaf litter can increase your exposure to ticks because it creates sheltered habitat that can support blacklegged ticks, especially around wooded edges and other shady parts of the yard.
Fallen leaves do not create ticks from scratch. A pile of leaves does not automatically mean ticks are present. But what leaf litter can absolutely do is create a protected environment that retains moisture and makes it possible for ticks to survive for longer in unfavorable weather.
Blacklegged ticks can remain active well into fall. In fact, on warmer winter days, they can even come out of dormancy. That’s a problem because blacklegged ticks can transmit Lyme disease.
Ticks are vulnerable to drying out, so they do better in humid, shaded habitats closer to the ground. Layers of leaves can help maintain those conditions while insulating the soil beneath them. Leaf litter is especially relevant along wooded edges and beneath shrubs because these tend to overlap with areas used by people and pets.
Fall cleanup can help reduce your tick exposure. It’s not just about maintaining a charming suburban appearance. Pay special attention to patios, play areas, frequently used lawn space, paths, and the transition between maintained yard and woods or brush. Remove excessive leaf buildup from those high-use areas, and you will make them less hospitable to ticks. It’s also smart to keep grass trimmed and cut back dense vegetation for the same reason.
If you are working in leaves or brush, look out for ticks if the temperature is above freezing. Ticks can and do come out of dormancy on warmer winter days. Use an EPA-registered tick repellent according to its label and check yourself, children, and pets after spending time in potential tick habitat.
If ticks remain a problem around your Long Island property this fall, Mosquito Squad of Long Island can help with professional tick control for the areas where you spend time outdoors. Call (631) 203-1252 or request a free quote online.
