Deer Ticks

DEER TICK IDENTIFICATION

Female deer ticks have orange-red bodies with a dark, brown-black scale right behind their head. Male deer ticks are completely dark brown. The adult female measures roughly 1/8 inch long — about the size of an apple seed — with the male being slightly smaller. After feeding, female deer ticks engorged with blood can balloon up to 1/2 inch in length. Deer tick nymphs grow less than 1/16 inch long. Larvae are smaller still.

SIGNS OF DEER TICKS

Deer ticks congregate in tall grass and brushy areas where the deer and other wildlife that often transport them hang out. To check your property for deer ticks, take a white towel and drag it slowly through the suspected area. The ticks will attach to the passing cloth, like they would a pant leg. Though small, deer ticks are easily seen against the white backdrop.

Bites from ticks infected with Lyme-causing bacterium cause a distinctive skin rash around the bite site. The rash looks like a target with a bull's eye center. Doctors can diagnose Lyme disease most easily when the rash is present. If you suspect a Lyme-transmitting tick has bitten you, don't delay medical attention.

HOW TO CONTROL DEER TICKS

Deer ticks stay active year-round, but they're most active from early spring through fall. Effective deer tick control targets existing deer ticks early in spring, then follows through with repeat applications to protect against newcomers. Amdro brand offers several highly effective products to kill deer ticks and protect your family and pets from tick-related disease:

• Amdro Quick Kill Home Perimeter Insect Killer Granules kill deer ticks by contact and create a barrier of protection around your home. Then they keep protecting against deer ticks for up to three months. The convenient shaker container is ideal for treating your home perimeter, including areas where your family entertains or plays. Water the treated area immediately after application to release the active ingredients.
• Amdro Quick Kill Lawn Insect Killer Granules is an easy-to-use, broadcast treatment that's perfect for full-yard applications. Apply the ready-to-use granules with a regular lawn spreader, then water the area lightly to release the active ingredient. It kills existing ticks by contact within 24 hours and keeps working for up to three months.
• Amdro Quick Kill Outdoor Insect Killer, available in ready-to-spray and concentrate formulas, simplifies treating flower gardens, shrubs, foundation plantings and grassy areas around your lawn. The easy-to-use concentrated liquid kill deer ticks by contact, providing you and your family with same-day control.

DEER TICK CONTROL TIPS

Most deer tick bites occur at home, where ticks tend to stay within 9 feet of longer grasses and shrubs. Treat lawn perimeters regularly and keep grass well maintained to keep deer ticks at bay.

Always read product labels and follow the instructions carefully.