Ticks

What are ticks?

Ticks are an external parasite that feeds on the blood of mammals; there are up to 15 species of ticks that live in Georgia. However, there are three species that most people commonly come in contact with: the black-legged tick (aka deer tick), the lone star tick, and the American dog tick.

• Blacklegged tick (deer tick) – This species is mostly found in wooded areas and will feed off of a variety of hosts,
  including deer and humans. They are a reddish-brown color and are approximately 1/8 of an inch in length. Adults of this species are most active in the spring and fall months. The black-legged tick is responsible for infecting people with Lyme disease.
• Lone star tick – Of the three species, this is the one that is least likely to come into contact with people living in Georgia. They are about 1/8 of an inch in length and brown in color; the females have a white spot in the middle of their back. They are most active from April through July.
• American Dog Tick – These ticks are most active in the spring, summer and fall. They live along wooded paths, in parks, and in farm pastures. The American dog tick prefers to use dogs, medium-sized mammals, and humans as hosts and can spread Rocky Mountain
  spotted fever to people. They are reddish-brown in color with white or yellow markings; males are about 1/8 of an inch in length and females are a bit larger and can grow up to ½ inch in length when engorged.

Are ticks dangerous?

Ticks are a danger to people and pets because they can spread a number of serious diseases. Their saliva contains germs and bacteria that can be transmitted to people, such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever along with tularemia and ehrlichiosis.

Why do I have a tick problem?

Ticks cannot move far on their own, they cannot jump or fly; instead, they rely on their hosts for transportation. Wild animals are usually responsible for bringing them onto your property. Once on your property, your pets can become their hosts and introduce them into your home. Even if you do not have pets, they may choose you or your family members as hosts as you brush past them in your yard or on a walk.

How do I get rid of ticks?

At Monitor Pest Control we offer Once Per Year pest control for ticks and fleas. In addition, our Once Per Year Pest Control Application pest control for homes in North West Georgia offers protection against over 47 different pests, Once Per Year Pest Control Application and pest management for businesses experiencing pest problems.

Can I do it myself?

Ticks can be difficult for homeowners to eradicate from their home and property on their own. Even if you believe that you have gotten rid of all the adult ticks, their eggs can still hatch months down the line, causing a re-infestation. If you have ticks invading your home or property, contact Monitor Pest Control today.

Why choose Monitor Pest Control?

With over 25 years of experience, we know the time, effort, and commitment it takes to solve your tick problem. With Monitor Pest Control, you’ll receive trained professionals, serious commitment and thorough treatments.

How can I prevent a tick problem in the future?

It is difficult to keep wild animals from introducing ticks to your property but there are actions you can take to help prevent ticks from overtaking your property. Make sure pets that spend time outdoors are treated with a tick preventative and they are checked for ticks before letting them back into the house. Keep grass trimmed low since that is where they like to hide and wait to catch a ride on their next unsuspecting host. Also, remove items that attract wild animals to your property such as bird feeders.