Ticks in New York State
Capable of spreading dangerous diseases such as tularemia and Lyme disease, ticks are one of the most concerning pests to encounter. Known for latching onto both people and pets for a bloodmeal, proper tick prevention is essential for personal health and wellbeing. Ticks are most active outdoors during warmer months and can be found across the country, including in Michigan.
List of Common Ticks in New York
The most common ticks in New York state are:
When is Tick Season in New York State?
Ticks in New York state are most active in the spring and summer. However, ticks can be active any time temperatures are above freezing.
Tick-Borne Diseases in New York
Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness in New York state. However, ticks can also spread other diseases, including anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis and babesiosis. If you plan on spending time outdoors, especially outside of the city, we recommend taking the following steps to prevent tick bites:
- If possible, wear long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and closed-toe shoes. Wear light-colored clothing to make ticks easier to identify.
- Avoid vegetation and stick to the center of trails when hiking or walking in wooded areas.
- Always inspect yourself, your pets, and your loved ones for ticks after spending time outdoors.
- Use insect repellent that has at least 20% DEET.
What to Do If You Are Bitten by a Tick in New York
If you or someone you know discovers an embedded tick, we recommend taking the following steps:
- Pull back any hair in order to expose the tick.
- Grasp the tick’s head using fine-tipped tweezers, getting as close to the skin as possible. Avoid grabbing the tick’s body as it may cause it to inject blood into the skin.
- In a straight motion, pull the tick’s head until it comes off the skin. Avoid twisting or wiggling the tick.
- Thoroughly wash the bite area, as well as your hands, using soap and water.
- Wrap the tick tightly in tissue paper and dispose of it in a closed receptacle. You can also flush the tick down the toilet.
- Monitor the bite. If a fever or rash develops over the following weeks, consult a doctor.
Find a Tick Exterminator in New York Today
Because of the serious health risk involved, we recommend contacting a pest control professional if you find ticks on or near your property. Conduct a search below by entering your zip code.
