Ticks

Ticks are external parasites that feed on the blood of mammals. They are arachnids that have eight legs and teardrop-shaped bodies. Their coloring and size largely depend on their species, as well as their stage of development. 

There are up to 15 species of ticks that live in Tennessee, but the three most commonly found species in Middle Tennessee are the brown dog tick, the lone star tick, and the American dog tick.

What are the Common Ticks Found in Tennessee?

Brown Dog Tick - Brown dog ticks can be found throughout the eastern United States and in some parts of the west, but are more likely to inhabit warm environments in the southern part of the country. They are a reddish-brown color and are approximately 1/8 of an inch in length if they haven't taken a blood meal and up to a 1/2 inch in length if they have fed. Canines are their preferred host.

Lone Star Tick - Of the three species, the lone star tick is the least likely to come into contact with people living in Tennessee. They are about 1/8 of an inch in length and brown in color. They get their name from the white spot that females have in the middle of their backs. Lone star ticks are most active from April through July.

American Dog Tick - These ticks are most active in the spring, summer, and fall. They live in parks, along wooded paths, and in farm pastures. The American dog tick prefers to use dogs, medium-sized mammals, and humans as hosts and can spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever to people. They are reddish-brown in color with white or yellow markings. Males are about 1/8 of an inch in length and females are a bit larger and can grow up to a ½ inch in length when fully engorged.

Are Ticks Dangerous?

Ticks are a danger to people and pets because they can spread a number of serious diseases. Their saliva contains germs and bacteria that can be transmitted to people through their bites. Ticks are known to spread Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia, ehrlichiosis, and other dangerous illnesses.

Different species of ticks spread different diseases, and not every tick is infected with a disease, but the threat is bad enough that these pests are ones to avoid at all costs. If you contract a tick-borne illness, you may experience anything from brief flu-like symptoms to a chronic illness to death.

Why Do I Have a Tick Problem?

Ticks cannot fly, jump, or move far on their own. Instead, ticks rely on hosts for transportation. Wild animals are usually responsible for bringing them onto your property. Once on your property, pets often become hosts and introduce the ticks into your home. Even if you do not have pets, you could serve as a host if you brush past them while on a walk or while working in your yard.

Ticks prefer areas with overgrowth, so they’re often found along tree lines, in overgrown grass, and in leaf piles.

How Do I Get Rid of Ticks?

At All-American Pest Control we offer pest control for ticks and fleas. In addition, our Perimeter Plus pest control for homes in Middle TN offers protection against over 47 different pests, our green pest control solutions provide eco-friendly options, and our professional pest management for businesses protects businesses that are experiencing pest problems. 

Because hundreds, or even thousands, of ticks can hatch at a time, and because they are so dangerous to your health, it’s best to contact the professionals at All-American when you have a tick problem on your property. We will provide you with the services necessary to take care of your tick problem so that you can spend time outdoors with confidence.