Types of Ticks in CT
Two common species of ticks in Connecticut are the deer tick and the American dog tick. The pests are most active in the spring and summer. Grassy fields and dense forests provide ticks with shelter and food, as the pests share this habitat with the animals they target as hosts.
Adult dog ticks are reddish-brown and have eight legs. They’re about the size of a watermelon seed. Deer ticks, also known as black-legged ticks, are slightly smaller. Their bodies are brownish-black with dark limbs. Female deer ticks often have an orange or red spot near the head.
Issues Caused by Ticks in Connecticut
Since these pests cannot fly, they latch onto clothing or fur as people, pets, or wildlife pass by. Once attached, ticks crawl over the host’s body to find an ideal feeding site, so they can take a blood meal. If left undisturbed, these parasites may remain embedded in the skin for up to 10 days.
Deer ticks in Connecticut can transmit Lyme disease and babesiosis to people. American dog ticks spread Rocky Mountain spotted fever to humans in addition to several illnesses that affect canines. If you suspect a tick problem in your home or on your property, call the team at Waltham Pest Services for assistance.