It’s springtime in Ohio, and as the temperatures rise, tick season starts to take hold. These tiny, unwanted creatures thrive in the warm months, waiting in yards, parks, and wooded areas to latch onto unsuspecting hosts. 

Did you know that Ohio is home to several types of ticks, each with its unique characteristics and health risks? Studies have shown that tick populations have dramatically increased in the last two decades, with tickborne diseases more than doubling.

Concerned? You should be. We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know about the types of ticks in Ohio and how to protect your family, pets, and outdoor spaces from their vicious bite. 

What Types of Ticks Are in Ohio?

Blacklegged Ticks (Deer Ticks) 

Also known as the blacklegged deer tick, this species is infamous for its role in transmitting Lyme disease. As one of the most common types of ticks in Ohio, these pests are tiny, even in their adult form, making them particularly difficult to spot. 

They prefer forested or shaded areas with cool, moist soil and are most commonly found in spring and fall seasons. 

You can suspect a blacklegged deer tick if you notice a tick that: 

• Small size, ranging from the size of a poppy seed to a sesame seed. 
• Reddish-brown body with dark black legs. 
• Typically latches on to human hosts, deer, or small mammals like mice. 

The biggest risks posed by this tick include spreading diseases like Lyme disease, babesiosis, and anaplasmosis. 

American Dog Tick (Wood Tick) 

The American dog tick, sometimes called a wood tick, is likely the most recognizable species in Ohio. Larger and easier to spot, this type of tick thrives in grassy areas, making it a common visitor to yards across the state. Despite its name, it feeds on various mammals, not just dogs. 

Here’s what to watch for: 

• Larger size, similar to the size of an apple seed at full growth. 
• Oval-shaped and dark brown with white or grayish markings on its back. 

This species is known for transmitting Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia, although such cases are rare in Ohio. 

Lone Star Tick 

The lone star tick is named for the distinct yellow or white dot found on the back of female ticks (commonly referred to as the tick with yellow dot). Found mainly in southern Ohio but increasingly spread throughout the state, these ticks are aggressive biters. 

Watch for the following:

• Ticks that are a medium size with reddish-brown bodies. 
• Females feature a prominent yellow or white “star” marking. 

The lone star tick is known to uniquely transmit ehrlichiosis, STARI (Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness), and even cause a rare meat allergy known as alpha-gal syndrome. 

Seeing Ticks? Call Professional Tick Control Services 

Ticks are more than just a backyard nuisance; they’re a legitimate health concern that requires a proactive approach. If you’re noticing an uptick in activity around your property, it might be time to call in experts like Green Shield Pest Pros. 

We provide comprehensive yard inspections to identify risk zones. Plus, our eco-friendly treatments are targeted to reduce tick populations without harming the environment. Most importantly, we’ll provide you with ongoing prevention tips to keep your property tick-free year-round. 

With tick season in full swing, there’s no better time to safeguard your family and yard. Contact Green Shield Pest Pros today and take the first step toward a healthier, tick-free space.

Did You Know? 

Ticks are not insects. They’re arachnids, closely related to spiders and scorpions. Unlike other biting pests, ticks can stay attached to a host for several days, silently feeding on blood and possibly transmitting diseases. Experts suggest wearing light-colored clothing while outdoors to spot and remove ticks before they latch on. This is especially important during peak tick season, which typically runs from April to September (aligning with the state’s warmer months).

FAQ 

What attracts ticks to my yard? 

Ticks thrive in moist, shaded environments like tall grass, leaf piles, and wooded areas. Keeping your lawn mowed, clearing brush, and creating a buffer of wood chips between your yard and wooded zones can help reduce tick populations. 

How can I remove a tick safely? 

Use a fine-tipped pair of tweezers to grab the tick as close to your skin as possible. Pull upward with steady pressure, ensuring the entire tick is removed. Avoid squeezing or crushing the tick, as this can release its bodily fluids and increase the risk of disease transmission. 

Can ticks survive indoors? 

Yes, ticks can survive indoors if they latch onto a host or find a suitable environment with high humidity. However, they generally prefer outdoor habitats. 

Why should I hire professional tick control services? 

While DIY measures like tick repellents and landscaping can reduce your risk, professional tick control services offer more thorough and long-lasting protection. Green Shield Pest Pros specializes in eco-friendly treatments tailored to Ohio’s landscape and tick species. 

Are ticks in Ohio becoming more common? 

Yes. Due to warmer winters and changing habitats, tick populations in Ohio have steadily increased, making preventative measures more critical than ever.