9 Truths About Ticks

For much of the Northeastern United States, winter was relatively mild in 2022-2023. While that may be good news for anyone who doesn’t love snow, it increases tick activity when the weather warms up. Warmer winters allow ticks to remain active during months these bloodsucking pests would otherwise be dormant. As a result, the National Pest Management Association warns that 2023 might be the worst tick season experienced in many years. 

With the tick population increasing and tickborne diseases on the rise, USX Pest Control wants to ensure that residents know the truth about ticks. Many myths about ticks can be misleading and even harmful. Let’s take a closer look at nine tick facts and myths to help you and your loved ones stay safer during the upcoming tick season.  

Tick Facts and Myths 

Can you tell fact from fiction? We’ve rounded up nine truths about ticks and some common tick myths to test how much you know about these small but dangerous pests. 

1. Ticks Are Only Active in Summer 

Myth: Although ticks tend to be more active in warm weather, with average tick seasons spanning March through November, they potentially pose a year-round risk. In fact, ticks may be active any time temperatures are 40 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer.  

2. You Can Encounter Ticks in Your Backyard 

Truth: Although ticks do inhabit wooded areas with tall grass, such as forests and fields, they can also hitch a ride on other animals like deer and mice. It’s imperative to take precautions while camping or hiking, but it’s equally important to remain aware of the dangers close to home. Groundcover, brush piles, unmowed grass, and similar spots can all provide shelter for ticks. This makes exposure equally likely in areas you may not think to be as cautious about.  

3. If You Don’t Feel a Bite, You’re Fine 

Myth: Many people never feel anything at all when ticks bite them. Ticks may remain undetected for days, which is why it’s so important to do a thorough body check after spending time outdoors. Perform a head-to-toe check, using a mirror to inspect spots that are hard to see. These pests can attach anywhere on the body, including in and around the ears, underarm areas, on the scalp, behind the knees, around the waist, and between the legs.  

4. Tweezers Are the Best Way to Remove Ticks 

Myth: While many myths about ticks suggest removing them with tweezers, burning them, or smothering them with petroleum jelly, the safest, most effective removal method is with a specialized tick remover tool or having a doctor remove it. After removing the tick, wash the affected area and your hands with soap and water. 

5. If You’re Bitten, You Only Have to Worry About Lyme Disease 

Myth: Ticks carry more than a dozen diseases, all of which can cause symptoms like fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and headaches. In addition to Lyme disease, ticks may carry rash-causing conditions like Southern tick-associated rash illness, ehrlichiosis, tularemia, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. If you are ill and have had a recent tick bite, your doctor will need to evaluate your symptoms and perform lab tests to diagnose you. 

6. As Soon as You Get a Tick Bite, You’re Infected 

Myth: Although ticks are dangerous because of the potential for infection with a tickborne disease, not all ticks carry pathogens that cause illness. For those that do, they typically must remain attached for at least 24 hours to infect the host. It takes a substantial amount of time for a tick to secrete bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens from its saliva into the host’s bloodstream.  

7. Lyme Disease Always Accompanies a Bullseye Rash  

Myth: The truth is that Lyme disease doesn’t always present with a rash. Some people have no rash, others get the characteristic bullseye rash, and still, others have a vague red rash. Assuming you are safe from Lyme disease because you don’t have a rash, or your rash doesn’t look like a bullseye could lead to delayed treatment.  

8. Ticks Find Hosts by Detecting Carbon Dioxide 

Truth: Many myths claim that ticks can smell blood, but the truth is that they use their sharp sense of smell to detect carbon dioxide. Every time you or your pet exhales, you’re potentially alerting ticks that are nearby to your presence. 

9. Ticks Stay on Low Vegetation — They Don’t Jump 

Truth: Many people believe that ticks jump or fly onto their victims. However, they wait patiently, usually at the tips of shrubs and grasses, to climb onto their hosts. They use their senses to detect moisture, vibration, body heat, and carbon dioxide. Once a host brushes past its location, a tick will climb on and find a spot to attach. 

Tick Control Services to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones 

Another truth about ticks you need to know: Tick control services can help protect people and pets from the dangers of tick bites. USX Pest implements a three-step process to give homeowners peace of mind when enjoying their outdoor spaces, starting with a free property assessment. Trained technicians identify areas where ticks may inhabit and provide advice on preventing infestations. We use an effective, eco-friendly spray to kill ticks. Seasonal follow-up appointments ensure your property remains tick-free for maximum enjoyment.  

Contact USX Pest to Learn More 

Ticks aren’t just annoying. These blood-drinking pests can be quite dangerous to people and pets. Take control of your property today. Schedule a free inspection from USX Pest Control or call us at 855-925-2707 for immediate assistance.