One of the primary concerns every outdoors-loving Maryland resident has during the warm months is ticks. Beyond the 1,867 reported cases of Lyme disease in Maryland in 2016, there are many other diseases that ticks can carry and transmit to humans and furry friends.
The Most Common Ticks in Maryland
- American Dog Ticks: These ticks can lead to Rocky Mountain spotted fever, tularemia and tick paralysis. Adults are most active from April-early August, and they are typically found in places with little to no tree cover.
- Black-Legged Ticks or Deer Ticks:These ticks are prevalent in areas where white-tailed deer dwell, including deciduous forests throughout the state. Deer ticks are well known for being the primary transmitter of Lyme disease in the state of Maryland, in addition to anaplasmosis, babesiosis and Powassan disease. Adult deer ticks are active all year long, but nymphs and larvae are typically found from May-August and July-September respectively.
- Brown Dog Ticks:These ticks prefer feeding on dogs, but can occasionally be found in homes. Dog ticks are active all year long in larvae, nymph and adult stages. These pests can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever, canine ehrlichiosis and canine babesiosis.
- Lone Star Ticks: Lone Star ticks are associated with an allergy to red meat, in addition to Southern tick-associated rash illness, tularemia and human ehrlichiosis. Adults are active from April-late August. Lone Star ticks are most commonly found in woodlands with dense undergrowth and near animal resting areas.
- Gulf Coast Ticks:These ticks are not very common in Maryland, but they have been discovered in grassy prairie areas and coastal uplands the past few years. Gulf Coast ticks can carry Rickettsia parkeri spotted fever.
How Should You Remove a Tick?
If you do find a tick on yourself, someone else or your pet, you shouldn’t panic, but you should remove it as quickly as possible. The safest and most effective way to remove a tick is using a pair of sharp tweezers. Firmly grasp the tick near the skin and pull the body away from the skin with a smooth, steady motion. Clean the area with soap and warm water and disinfect the area with rubbing alcohol. If you are concerned or having difficulty removing the tick, you can visit the doctor, an urgent care facility or the vet.
Protect Your Family from Maryland Ticks
Brody Brothers Pest Control works with hundreds of property owners every year to keep properties safe and free from harmful insects, animals, and pests. Brody Brothers Quality Pest Control can treat any problems and maintain your property to minimize risks. If your looking for tick control services in Maryland contact us online or give us a call at (410) 653-2121 (Baltimore region) or (301) 637-0178 (Montgomery County).
