S & W Pest Management Inc : Insect Guide

Pest Guide » Ticks and Fleas » Deer Ticks:

Blacklegged (Deer) Ticks
Ixodes scapularis
Color: Dark brown to black body
Legs: Eight
Shape: Flat; broad oval
Size: 1/8", adolescents may be as small as a pinhead
Antennae: No
Flight: No

The Blacklegged tick, or "deer tick" is named for its dark legs, which are a contrast to its pale body. These ticks like to feed on the blood of white-tailed deer, which is why they are also called deer ticks. Blacklegged ticks prefer to hide in grass and shrubs and are commonly found in and near wooded areas.

Blacklegged deer ticks can spread Lyme Disease. Studies have shown that 90% of the black-legged ticks may be infected with B. burgdorferi in parts of northeastern states. Lyme Disease most often begins with the appearance of a spreading rash at the site of the bite. This rash, called erthema chronicum migrans or ECM, is seen in about 60% of patients. Most victims of Lyme Disease report a flu-like illness at first, and often dismiss the symptoms as a “24 hour bug,” overexertion or lack of rest. Lyme Disease is very difficult to diagnose because each victim’s symptomatology can be different. For more information about Lyme Disease, please visit the CDC webiste.

Feeding pets garlic, brewer's yeast or B vitamins has not been shown to be effective against fleas or ticks. Also, pennyroyal, eucalyptus, rosemary, tea leaves and citronella have not provided effective control. In fact, overdosing of garlic or onion can be irritating or toxic to pets. So please, contact you veterinarian before you start any flea and tick control program for your pet.

Prevention:

When in an area where ticks are common, wear long sleeved shirts and pants, preferably light colored so ticks will be easy to detect.
Tuck pants into socks.
Use an insect repellent containing moderate concentrations of DEET on the skin according to label directions.
When you return indoors, inspect clothing and skin thoroughly for ticks, including head.
Wash clothes immediately.

If you would like to make an appointment with S & W Pest Management, please fill out the online appointment form or call 1-877-989-BUGS.