Ticks are a common pest that can transmit disease to both humans and animals, which means that it is important to know where to find them and how to get rid of them. You may be unintentionally inviting ticks into your landscape and your home. Learn more about tick behavior so that you can keep your family safe.
Where Do Ticks Live?
These pests prefer to feed on deer, birds, squirrels, mice, rabbits, and other small animals. That means that ticks are typically found in elevated, wooded areas where they can easily find food sources. However, they are more than happy in urban and coastal areas as long as they have a humid and moist area to live in. Any park, backyard, or grassy area has the potential to be a tick habitat.
Where to Look for Ticks?
If you are worried about ticks in your yard, there are some key areas you can check. Keep in mind that the most common type of tick prefers to stay close to the ground where they lay their eggs. They also thrive in environments with a humidity level of 90% and above, so check any place that is warm and moist, including:
- Wood piles
- Architectural features, such as stone walls that can retain moisture
- Bird feeders
- Overgrown trees and shrubs
- Any decomposing organic matter
Ticks will latch onto a human or animal during a process known as “questing.” Essentially, they will climb to the end of a branch or weed and grab onto prey as it passes by. Once they are on board, they will crawl to hard-to-reach places and other areas where the skin is thin and easy to bite through.
How to Get Rid of Ticks in Your Yard
The best way to get rid of ticks is by keeping your yard clean. Get rid of any debris where they might like to hang out. Also, keep your grass short and trimmed. If you want to take things a step further, you can install gravel and stone walkways and patios around your landscape that will help create tick-free areas and send them looking for greener pastures.
If ticks are a real problem in your area, you may want to consider spraying your yard with a pesticide. Look for products that contain bifenthrin. To make sure the job is done properly and you don’t expose yourself to chemicals, call a professional. At PMi Pest Management, our experts will know exactly where and when to spray for the best results. We can also work with you to find solutions that are pet and kid-friendly. Contact us today for all your tick and pest-related questions and needs.
