Ticks
What are they?
Ticks are arachnids and therefore distantly related to spiders. Due to their ability to be vectors of a number of diseases that are harmful to humans, ticks are well-known by most of us. They play a major part in what we choose to do each summer, simply because we choose not to spend too much time where they occur. Though this can be a problem, sensible precautions of covering up and using appropriate repellents can make it possible to enjoy the countryside without getting too paranoid that there is a tick lurking behind every tree (though sometimes it might seem like there is!). Six-legged larval stage ticks emerge from eggs in spring and usually spend a year in this stage, before becoming eight-legged nymphs and eventually adults. Growth can be slow and the full life cycle may take up to three years, with a blood meal needed at all stages of the cycle. The life cycle is such that many individuals will die before reaching maturity simply because they do not manage to find a host to feed from.
Identification
Though ticks are abundant in our area, there are not many species involved and identification is usually straghtforward - though nymphs can be difficult simply because of their small size. If you are bitten by a tick and are concerned enough to seek medical advice, it is always advisable to preserve the tick, as identification of the tick can aid the process of identifying which diseases may have been transmitted.
For further information on ticks or tick-borne diseases, you should go to the CDC website.
American Dog Tick Dermacentor variabilis
Common and widespread throughout our area. Variously marked with pale streaks or patches on the back. Nymphs prefer to feed on small mammals such as mice and voles, while adults target medium-sized mammals such as dogs, raccoons, opposums etc. Known to be a vector for Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Tularemia.
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Lone Star Tick Amblyomma americanum
Common and widespread throughout our area. Females are easily identified by the white spot on the middle of the back. A range of mammal hosts are used during the full life cycle, from mice to deer. Lone Stars are known to transmit ehrlichiosis, tularemia and STARI (Southern tick-associated rash illness). Recent research also implicates the species in a link with delayed meat anaphylaxis.
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