Ticks
Types of Ticks You May Find in Ohio
Deer Ticks (Black-legged Ticks)
Deer ticks are the primary culprits behind Lyme disease in Ohio. These small, dark-colored ticks are most commonly found in wooded areas and tall grasses, waiting to attach themselves to animals or people who brush against vegetation.
You’re more likely to spot a deer tick in the spring and fall when temperatures are cooler and humidity is high. If you find a tick embedded in your skin, it's essential to remove it carefully and monitor for any signs of illness, such as a red, circular rash (often a sign of Lyme disease).
American Dog Ticks
Larger than deer ticks, American dog ticks prefer to take up residence in grassy or bushy areas. They prefer the outdoors but can also be brought into your home by pets, primarily dogs, as evidenced by their name.
While they don’t transmit Lyme disease like deer ticks, they can spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever, a serious bacterial infection. These ticks are usually active during the warmer months and tend to latch onto your furry friends, but they will also readily attach to humans. Be sure to protect your pets with tick prevention treatments and check them (and yourself) regularly after outdoor activities.
Wolf Spider
Big and fast, wolf spiders aren't fans of hanging around in webs. They're out hunting at night, chasing down bugs like beetles and flies. They might startle you with their size, but don’t worry—their bites aren’t usually a threat.
Lone Star Ticks
Easily recognized by the distinctive white spot on the back of the female, lone star ticks are found in woodlands and grassy areas throughout Ohio. They are aggressive feeders and can transmit several diseases, including Ehrlichiosis, Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI), alpha-gal syndrome, and tularemia.
Although more common in the southern U.S., lone star ticks are regularly showing up in different areas of Ohio. They are particularly active during the summer, so it’s important to take precautions when spending time outdoors in areas where ticks are prevalent.
What to Do If You Find a Tick
- If you find a tick attached to your skin, remove it promptly and properly to reduce the risk of disease transmission. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible and avoid pinching its body. Gently pull upward with steady, even pressure. Be sure not to twist or jerk the tick, as this can cause parts of it to break off and remain embedded in your skin.
- Once the tick is removed, thoroughly clean the bite area with rubbing alcohol or soap and water to minimize the risk of infection. Dispose of the tick by placing it in a sealed container or flushing it down the toilet.
- For the next few weeks, monitor the bite site for signs of infection or unusual symptoms, like a rash, fever, or flu-like illness. If any of these symptoms develop, visit your doctor for additional help.
How Green Shield Pest Pros Can Help You Stay Tick-Free
- Ticks are more than just an outdoor inconvenience; they’re a serious health risk. At Green Shield Pest Pros, we offer comprehensive tick control services to help protect your home, yard, and pets.
- Our team of experts can assess your property, identify tick hotspots, and implement eco-friendly solutions to keep these dangerous pests at bay. With Green Shield Pest Pros on your side, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that you’re taking proactive steps to protect your family from ticks and the diseases they carry.
