Are Ticks Really A Threat in Winter?

These warm-blood-seekers don’t disappear completely but there are steps you can take to minimize their access to your home.

Many property owners think they don’t need to worry about ticks during the winter months. While the threat may be reduced, it’s not completely removed. Most ticks, such as dog ticks, will take shelter underground or in leaf piles during the winter. However, some species like the adult Deer tick will remain active in their hunt for a blood meal in temperatures as low as 35 degrees.

The National Pest Management Association recommends executing these safeguards during the winter months:

Seal cracks and holes on the outside of the home.

Besides having the added benefit of reducing heat loss, filling in gaps in your foundation with concrete or sealant will prevent a number of pests from creeping into your property—including ticks.

Keep branches and shrubbery trimmed away from the home.

Ticks can have a lifespan as long as two years. During the winters, they enter a dormant state using foliage like leaf and needle piles to survive the winter. Keeping a clean property can help prevent ticks from taking shelter near well-treaded areas.

Store firewood at least 20 feet from the home and five feet off the ground.

Many species of ticks will burrow into the ground while waiting for cold seasons to pass. Keeping firewood off the ground helps remove the possibility of unknowingly bringing ticks into your home.

If you suspect an infestation, contact a pest professional.

If you find a tick in or near your home, it’s important to do regular tick checks. If a member of your family—including pets—exhibits signs of tick-borne illness, you should do a thorough inspection of your home for ticks eggs, especially baseboards, window sills, and carpets.

Final Considerations

If you follow these steps, you can keep ticks at bay during the winter. Practicing good tick check habits following outdoor activities along with these tips, you can help avoid the dangers of a tick bite. Review our guide for more info:

Download Our Comprehensive Guide to Tick Prevention

The team at Graduate Pest Solutions is passionate about keeping your home pest-free. Call us at 413-566-8222 or contact us with any questions or if you are experiencing a pest problem. We have the knowledge and service necessary to help keep your home pest-free!