How To Protect Yourself From Dangerous Ticks In Atlanta

There are many species of ticks in Atlanta. While most people view ticks as annoying bugs that can leave an itchy bite on your skin, they are actually much more dangerous. These tiny arachnids are known to spread a wide range of illnesses and diseases to both humans and animals.

At Solstys Environmental, our number one goal is to keep you and your family safe. We provide tick elimination services as well as preventative pest control in Atlanta. If you are worried about being bitten by dangerous ticks around your home, read on to learn effective ways to keep you and your family safe. 

Characteristics Of Common Ticks

Ticks seem to be everywhere in Atlanta. The hot summers and mild winters make this part of Georgia the perfect destination for these bugs to thrive. You may think that all ticks look the same. However, while they all may have similar characteristics, each type has unique features that let you know which species you are dealing with. Some of the different types of ticks that you are most likely to find in this area include:

• American dog tick: As the name suggests, this tick is commonly found on dogs and other pets. When it hasn't fed, it has a small, flat body that is about 3/16 of an inch long and is brown with white or gray markings. After it has fed, its body will swell to the size of a small coffee bean. They also have a hard shell covering their bodies that helps to protect them.
• Lone Star tick: This is probably one of the most common types of ticks that people find in Atlanta. If the tick is unfed, it is usually only about ⅙ of an inch to ¼ of an inch long and is typically brown with a red tint. After it has taken a blood meal, it will swell to measure about 1/2 inch in length and turn a pale gray color. 
• Black-legged tick: This tick is also commonly referred to as the "deer tick." They have flat, oval-shaped bodies that are about ⅛ of an inch long and can be a combination of orange and brown. Usually, their legs and heads are black. 

While their size and coloration may vary, all ticks have a flat, oval-shaped body that becomes swollen when they feed, eight legs, elongated mouthparts, and no antennae. The ticks in Atlanta can be found outside all year long. However, they are usually the most active from April until September. 

The Diseases Ticks Are Capable Of Spreading

Ticks can carry a wide range of diseases. When they bite you, they are able to spread these harmful pathogens to you. Some of the different illnesses people catch from tick bites include the Powassan virus, Lyme disease, B. miyamotoi disease, and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Humans are not the only ones who can get sick from a tick bite. Dogs and other animals can also catch a wide range of illnesses, including Lyme disease. 

How To Prevent Tick Bites When Out And About

Ticks can hide behind or under almost any object. Even a tiny blade of grass is large enough to keep more than one tick out of sight. Because they can be difficult to spot, they can also be hard to prevent as well. However, if you stay out of tall grass, keep tick repellant on your animals, and wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, you can greatly reduce your chances of getting bitten by a tick. 

The Most Effective Tick Control Solution for Your Yard

It can be extremely difficult to prevent ticks from taking over your Atlanta property. At Solstys Environmental, our experienced home pest control technicians will not only eliminate the ticks from your yard, but we can also work with you to ensure that they don't come back any time soon. Give us a call today to schedule your inspection!