As temperatures begin to rise in Alabama, it’s time to think about the numerous pests that will soon lurk about, including ticks. This annoying pest is active year-round, although it is most active during the months of June - August. Ticks do much more than annoy us; they carry deadly diseases that can be transmitted through their bites. The tick population is rising in the state. Hot weather and high humidity draw the pest to the state. Not only must we worry about ticks attaching themselves to our pets or our bodies, we must also consider the dangerous bacteria, parasites, and diseases that can be transmitted.  

Common Ticks in Alabama

Three types of ticks are most commonly seen in the state: the lone star tick, the black-legged tick, and the American dog tick. The lone star tick also called a water tick, is the most common. Ticks attach themselves to a host after jumping out from hiding. Generally, ticks hide in weeds or tall grass, including that found in yards. The tick can go unnoticed for several days or longer, which can cause irritation and provides sufficient time for it to transmit disease.  

Health Risks

The Alabama Public Health Office says the most common tick-borne diseases in the state include Lyme disease, rickettsiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis. Across the country, Lyme disease is the most commonly reported tick-borne illness affecting humans.  Approximately 20,000 to 30,000 new cases of Lyme disease are reported every year. Protecting yourself, your children, and your pets from the dangers of ticks is important.  Keeping grass and bushes trimmed low and utilizing professional pest control is the best lines of defense against the dangers of ticks. Southern Pride Pest Control is a full-service pest control company headquartered in Muscle Shoals, AL. SPPC specializes in pest control and prevention services, including termite control, rodent control, bed bug control, ant control, and mosquito control, and can even help with moisture control around your residence or commercial property. Established in 2010, Southern Pride Pest Control is a reliable source of quality pest management solutions from a trusted team. Call us today for any of your pest control needs.