Tick Identification Guide

What are ticks?

Ticks are ectoparasites and arachnids, closely related to spiders and mites. They feed only on the blood of warm-blooded mammals like humans, pets, livestock, and wild animals. Ticks in New Haven have oval-shaped bodies that are flat unless they have recently fed; after feeding, their bodies swell like a balloon. Adult ticks are wingless and have eight legs. They come in a wide range of colors including black, reddish-brown, or gray. Ticks also have specialized mouth parts that allow them to pierce the skin of their host.

Are ticks dangerous?

Ticks are vectors of serious diseases such as anaplasmosis, babesiosis, Lyme disease, tularemia, and ehrlichiosis, spreading them to both people and animals. This propensity for transmitting disease places ticks among the most dangerous pests that you should always avoid.

Why do I have a tick problem?

Ticks don’t fly or jump; instead, they travel from place to place by hitching a ride on the backs of their host. Wild animals will often introduce ticks onto properties as they travel across them or stop to feed, having picked up these pests after spending time in tall grass or wooded areas.

Where will I find ticks?

You'll find ticks either on their hosts or outside waiting for a new host. When an appropriate host brushes past, they will crawl onto them and begin feeding on their blood. Ticks found inside a home or business were brought in either on you, your clothing, or your pets. They are not significant indoor pests because most species are not able to breed indoors. Outside, ticks hide in damp, dark areas including tall grass, along wooded paths, wooded areas, and under shrubs and bushes.

How do I get rid of ticks?

Here at Connecticut Pest Elimination, our dedicated and licensed pest technicians provide the comprehensive pest control services needed to eliminate ticks and other common pests and keep them from returning! Guard your home or business against pests with the help of a local, full-service pest control company with over 27 years of experience. For more information about our residential and commercial pest control services, reach out to Connecticut Pest Elimination today!

How can I prevent ticks in the future?

In addition to our professional services, the following prevention tips will help you to avoid problems with ticks here in Connecticut:

• Remove food sources for wild animals by removing bird feeders from your property.

• Regularly vacuum your home or business to pick up any stray ticks.

• Keep locking lids on all trash cans and compost bins.

• Keep the grass in your yard cut short.

• Regularly groom pets.

• Put your pets on a year-round tick control program.

• Place a barrier of stone between wooded areas and your lawn.

• Inspect yourself, children, and pets for ticks after spending time outdoors.

• Cut overgrown vegetation back from your property line and the exterior of your home or business.