Ticks are tiny, bloodthirsty parasites that feed on animals, humans, and birds. Tick bites are responsible for spreading dangerous pathogens to pets and humans. The bites can also result in serious allergic reactions for pets or individuals with sensitive skin. Birmingham pest control companies can assist in eradicating the tick problem.
How Do Ticks Spread Diseases?
Ticks are vectors for a number of diseases. A vector is an organism that transmits a disease-causing pathogen to another organism. Some common tick-borne illnesses include:
- Lyme disease
- Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever
- Tularemia
- Babesiosis
- Ehrlichiosis
Ticks spread infections through saliva after they bite a host. The saliva contains anti-coagulant and vasodilation properties that allow the parasite to feed to its full. Ticks can transfer harmful pathogens into the bloodstream during the bloodmeals, initiating infections.
Common Ticks In The Birmingham Area
There are approximately 850 different kinds of ticks globally, with the U.S having over 90 species. Ticks in Alabama come in varying sizes, colors, and preferential hosts. Here are some common tick species in Birmingham:
- Lone Star Tick
- Black-legged Tick
- American Dog Tick
- Gold Coast Tick
- Brown Dog Tick
Identifying the correct species invading your home is essential to the pest treatment process. If unsure, pest control experts can assist you in accurately identifying different ticks in Birmingham.
The Six Best Ways To Get Rid Of & Prevent Ticks
Tick infestations are hard to eliminate as the pests are tiny and sneaky. Here are six tips to get rid of ticks in Birmingham, AL:
1. Groom Your Pet
Your cat or dogs are preferable hosts to the different types of ticks in Alabama. Proper grooming and parasite treatment can ensure that your furry friend doesn’t host any bloodsuckers within your home.
2. Wear Light-Colored Clothes With Long Pants And Long Sleeves When Outdoors
Ticks are surprisingly hard to spot while they're biting you. Light-colored clothing can assist in the easy identification of ticks scurrying up your legs or arms for a bite. Long sleeves cover your open skin, reducing the risk of tick bites while in the wild.
3. Remove Yard Debris
Ticks will hide in tall grasses awaiting a host they can pounce on and feed. Keep your lawn grass short to expose any tick infestations to the sun. Keep shrubbery trimmed back, so it doesn't touch the exterior walls of your house. Stack your woodpiles away from your home’s foundation.
4. Use Bug Repellants When Visiting Potentially Infested Areas
You can use DEET-based bug repellant to deter the ticks from biting. However, you may require sprays with a higher concentration of pyrethrins, whose exposure can be dangerous for your pets and kids.
5. Spread Diatomaceous Earth Across Infested Sections In The Home
Diatomaceous earth is a desiccant that’s effective in controlling tick populations. Spread the natural tick killer powder in sections you suspect of hosting tick infestations around your home.
6. Call The Pros
Tick extermination services are the most effective way to eliminate the nasty, bloodthirsty bugs from your home. Pest experts can correctly identify the tick species, the possible nesting areas, and proper treatment solutions to kill these pests.
Keep Ticks Out Of Your Yard Forever!
Your best bet at eliminating the tick infestation is through professional pest treatment. EnviroCare can assist you in removing the bugs from your Birmingham home.
Our experts will carry out a widescale inspection process to identify the tick species and size of the infestation. We then recommend the proper tick control products to kill the parasites. Our follow-up services and preventative measures can ensure that the ticks don’t find their way back to your Birmingham home. Call us today to learn more about our tick extermination services.