Ticks are arthropods that belong to the Arachnida class, along with mites, spiders, scorpions, and others. The class consists of invertebrates with fairly durable exoskeletons that are either parasitic or predatory creatures. Ticks are eight-legged creatures that feed solely on blood extracted from animals or humans.
Experts further categorize ticks into either the soft tick or hard tick category. Ticks progress through four distinct stages of development, originating as an egg and transitioning as larvae and nymphs before reaching adulthood.
What are ticks good for in nature? Although largely known as an economic burden among owners of livestock, ticks serve a beneficial role in the food chain, as many ground birds such as turkeys and chickens, amphibians, and reptiles feed on these creatures.
Are you wondering how to spot a tick on a dog? Pet owners might notice signs that their dog has a tick when the animal begins licking and chewing an area of skin or when a red patch of irritated skin appears on shorter-haired breeds. Ticks often attach to a dog’s neck, head, or ears and feel like a small cyst or lump of hardened skin.
How to get rid of ticks in your house? Ticks are a type of dangerous pest that is difficult to fully eliminate from indoor areas. Contact a Los Angeles pest control company for an inspection if you suspect a problem with ticks.
Common Types Of Ticks Found In Los Angeles
According to the Los Angeles County West Vector Control District, the most common ticks found in this region include the Western black-legged tick (Ixodes pacificus), the Pacific Coast tick (Dermacentor occidentalis, and the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus).
Tick Bites Can Be Very Dangerous
Ticks are creatures without wings that lack any jumping ability. They usually reside in areas of ground debris or vegetation, such as wooded areas, meadows, or high weeds, as they await the possibility of a passing animal or human. When a host approaches, ticks will grasp it with their legs—a process called questing.
After identifying an accessible area of skin, ticks use a hypostome that pierces the layer and allows for the extraction of blood. A tick’s saliva may contain organisms that promote disease.
What diseases do ticks carry? Ticks represent a fairly significant health risk, as they are known carriers of tularemia, Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and other concerns.
Four Naturally Effective Ways To Prevent Tick Bites
Property owners in the Los Angeles area seeking answers regarding natural tick prevention methods should consider the following four best practices:
- All pets should remain on a year-round flea and tick prevention plan as a licensed veterinarian prescribes.
- People and their pets should avoid traveling through areas of high weeds or types of vegetation where ticks often hide.
- Put on full-length pants that limit direct access to the skin when preparing for hikes, picnics, camping, or other outdoor activities.
- Remember to regularly brush and inspect your pets for the presence of ticks, particularly after returning from outdoor environments.
Individuals who understand the best preventative strategies for ticks should significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing an infestation. However, contacting a local pest exterminator is the best option once ticks begin expanding throughout your home.
The Best Way To Keep Ticks Away From Your Yard
Are you a local property owner struggling with how to keep ticks away from your home? A Step Above Pest Control & Termite will visit the property and perform a detailed inspection, answer any questions, and explain the best form of treatment for eradicating ticks. Contact our office regarding a consultation today.