A Closer Look at Ticks in Florida: What You Need to Know

Living in Florida means dealing with a variety of pests thriving in our weather. Among the pests commonly encountered in Florida yards is the tick.Ticks are small, blood-sucking parasites that can transmit Lyme disease to both humans and their pets. 

Let’s take a closer look at ticks in Florida, including the common types, their life cycle, behavior, the health risks they pose, and most importantly, how to keep them from biting you and your family. 

Common types of ticks found in Florida

Several species of ticks can be found in Florida, each with its own distinct features and characteristics. The American dog tick, the black-legged tick, and the lone star tick are ticks that you will most commonly find in your yard or the local park. 

The American dog tick, commonly known as the wood tick, is typically found in grassy areas and can transmit diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The black-legged tick, known as the deer tick, is well known for spreading Lyme disease. Lastly, the lone star tick is named after the big white spot on its back (and also Texas). Lone star ticks can transmit diseases like ehrlichiosis and tularemia.

Adult ticks typically feed on larger animals like deer, cats, dogs, and humans if given the chance. They can typically be found hiding in tall, uncut grass, where larger mammals like deer tend to look for food. 

Tick prevention methods

Prevention is the key to a pest free environment, so keeping ticks away from your home should be your first step in preventing bites! 

Dress for protection: When going outdoors, particularly in wooded or grassy environments, opt for clothing that provides coverage for your skin, such as long sleeves, long pants, and closed-toe shoes. For added defense against ticks, consider tucking your pants into your socks to hinder them from climbing up your legs.

Use tick repellents: Apply an EPA-approved tick repellent to your exposed skin and clothing. Look for products that contain DEET, picaridin, or IR3535.

Perform regular tick checks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check your body for ticks, especially if you’re wearing shorts on a hot summer day. Pay close attention to areas such as your armpits, groin, behind the knee, scalp, and even behind your ears.

Health Risks from Ticks in Florida

If you are bitten by  a tick, keep an eye out for symptoms that may present themselves. Besides the usual itchiness and redness, tick bites can lead to more serious issues like fever, headaches, muscle aches, and rashes. If you notice any of these signs, seek medical assistance as soon as possible. Getting treatment early is key to recovering from tick related illnesses.

Tick removal techniques

If you find a tick attached to your skin, it's important to remove it properly to reduce the risk of infection. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to remove a tick:

• Use tweezers with a fine tip to grab the tick as close to the skin's surface as possible.
• Pull the tweezers upward and apply constant pressure. Do not twist or tug the tick hard, as this may cause it to break off and remain in the skin, potentially increasing risk of infection.
• Clean the area with water and an antiseptic after removing the tick. Remember, most consumer soaps do NOT contain antiseptics, so you will likely need to use rubbing alcohol or Neosporin to keep the wound clean.

Tick control measures for your home and yard

Ticks can also be a nuisance in your home and yard. To minimize their presence, here are some tick control measures you can take:

• Regularly mow your lawn and remove any leaf litter or brush piles where ticks may hide.
• Consider creating a barrier between wooded areas and your yard by using gravel or wood chips. This can help reduce the chance of ticks crawling into your outdoor living spaces.
• Consult your veterinarian about tick prevention products for your pets, such as tick collars or spot-on treatments.

Hiring a professional tick exterminator

At Orange Pest Control, we specialize in expertly eliminating ticks and implementing preventative measures to keep them at bay. Our team also offers personalized guidance on tick control strategies tailored to your property's needs. Reach out to us today for a complimentary consultation—we're here to help!

Conclusion and tips for staying safe from ticks in Florida

Ticks in Florida can pose risk to your family’s health, but with the right knowledge and preventive measures, you can keep your chances of getting bitten low. Remember to wear appropriate clothing, use tick repellents, and perform regular tick checks when navigating wooded areas and tall grass.

Be proactive in keeping ticks away from your home and family. Orange Pest Control is Kissimmee's #1 choice for tick prevention in homes and yards. Reach out to us today for a free quote, and start living bite-free today!