It’s summer! For many, that means time to head to the lake, the campsite, or simply roam as freely as you like through the most beautiful natural setting you can find. Unfortunately, it also means obsessively checking yourself for ticks when you get home. After all, something as tiny as a pinhead could put your life in danger, and one of the many ticks you must be aware of is the Lone Star tick.
What Is It?
Lone Star ticks are fairly noticeable. The females are easily distinguished from any others thanks to that “lone star” in the center of her back. The males have spots of white around the outer edge of their bodies. Adults tend to be active from April through the end of August, and they can be found on lower branches or twigs. The nymphs need just ten minutes to attach themselves to your body.
What You Can Do
Preventing bites from these ticks means taking all of the standard tick prevention steps. Before you go outside, treat your boots, clothes, and gear with permethrin. You should also use a repellent with at least 20% DEET on your body. Try to stick to the center of the trail, too, as ticks usually like the lower hanging branches.
If you’re worried about ticks in your yard, keeping things trimmed and mowed routinely is a great way to keep them out. Investing in a bit of professional help can help too. Give us a call today if you’re ready to keep the ticks out this summer!
Why the Worry?
Lone Star ticks are some of the most aggressive ones you’ll find. They can spread a number of different fairly serious conditions. Oddly enough, they can even cause you to develop a meat allergy after you’ve been bitten.
We can help. Our knowledge of tick pest control methods is second to none. If you have a tick problem in your yard, contact us today.