Ticks in Florida: A Comprehensive Guide to Identification and Control

Ticks are a significant concern in Florida, not just because of their irritating bites but also due to their capacity to transmit diseases to humans and pets. Given Florida’s warm climate, ticks can be a year-round problem. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on tick identification, hotspots, control methods, and preventive measures to help you safeguard your family and pets from the risks associated with ticks. If you have pets, it is best to consult with a professional pest control company about tick control on your property. For best prevention, maintenance treatment to tall grasses, bushes, and ornamentals will help to prevent ticks from invading your home, as well as veterinarian-prescribed treatments for your pets.

Are There Ticks in South Florida’s Climate?

Yes, ticks thrive in South Florida’s warm, humid climate, which allows them to remain active throughout the year, infesting trees, bushes, tall grass, and, yes, even pets and homes. This extended activity period increases the risk of tick-borne diseases, making tick control an essential part of household pest management in South Florida.

Types of Ticks in Florida: Identifying Common Species and Hotspots

Florida hosts several tick species, each favoring different habitats and posing unique risks. Understanding these can help you better protect your household. Identifying the tick species is very challenging and often requires a professional. However, ticks in general, are smaller, brown in color, have eight legs, and have an Appleseed-like body shape. When ticks feed on blood, they will enlarge and appear round rather than flat. Read below for the common ticks found in Florida.

American Dog Tick

Common in wooded, grassy areas, the American Dog Tick is known for transmitting Rocky Mountain spotted fever tularemia and can cause canine tick paralysis. Having these areas of activity treated by a professional pest control company, regularly checking pets for ticks, and using veterinarian-prescribed treatments are the key to managing their population. 

Brown Dog Tick

The Brown Dog Tick is known for infesting animals, particularly dogs in kennels, and can invade and complete its life cycle within homes. Control of this tick is important, as they can vector many canine and human diseases.

Lone Star Tick

The Lone Star Tick, identifiable by the distinct white spot on its back, can spread diseases like ehrlichiosis and Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI). Avoiding dense vegetation and using insect repellent are effective preventive measures when spending time outdoors, but professional lawn and ornamental pest control treatments are needed for long-lasting prevention.

Proactive Measures: How to Get Rid of Ticks and Keep Them Away

Combating ticks requires an integrated strategy. The best way to keep ticks from thriving on your property is to keep your yard well-maintained because tall grasses and brushes provide ideal habitats for ticks. Tick prevention for pets is equally important. Consult with your veterinarian for the best tick-prevention treatment. After walking your dogs, or if your cat spends time outside, inspect them for ticks before returning inside.

Just Call Hulett For Tick Pest Control Near You!

In the South Florida environment with high tick abundance, chances are homeowners will still need professional lawn pest control treatments, even after completing all of the proactive prevention techniques. If ticks have become a concern around your home, professional pest control is the most effective way to eliminate them and prevent future infestations. Hulett Environmental Services specializes in tick pest control, offering solutions tailored to Florida’s unique climate and landscapes.

Our team is equipped to identify tick hotspots in your home and in your landscape and implement targeted control measures to help protect your home, family, and pets. Do not let ticks put your household at risk. Contact Hulett Environmental Services today to schedule a free inspection to help safeguard your home and maintain a tick-free environment.