Florida Ticks

Florida ticks, Ixodidae, can transmit various diseases among animals, as well as from animals to humans. As Florida ticks thrive in our subtropical environment, it is always important for homeowners to stay protected. Although only true pest control experts can guarantee one's protection, education is a key tool in safeguarding one's home against the notorious Florida Tick.

About Florida Ticks
Few people realize that Florida ticks are in fact not insects, but rather closely related to spiders and mites. They have eight legs, are parasitic and feed on the blood of various animals. Several species of Florida ticks infest dogs, but cats are rarely attacked. Many Florida ticks are commonly referred to as wood ticks, as they often latch on to canines as they dash through forested areas. Of all the species of Florida ticks, the brown dog tick and the American dog tick prove the most troublesome.

Florida Dog Ticks are often encountered by sportsmen and those who work outdoors. They have a strong preference for canines, but will feed on any warm-blooded animal. This parasite's preference for such a common household pet makes home infestations by these pests quite common. Florida dog ticks can transmit diseases to both humans and canines, which can possibly result in paralysis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Tularemia. Some dog ticks can survive up to two years between blood meals.


Behavior of Florida Ticks
Adult female Florida ticks can lay up to 3,000 eggs after engorging on a blood meal. These eggs are often found in inconspicuous or difficult to reach places such as the roofs of kennels, high on walls, or on the ceilings of buildings. In homes, Florida ticks lay eggs around baseboards, windows, curtains and the edges of rugs. Eggs hatch in 19 to 60 days, and produce an extremely small six-legged seed tick. Florida ticks must complete 3 blood meals followed by three stage of molting to develop in to an eight-legged adult.

What to Do if Florida Ticks Have Already Infested
Suncoast pest control will carefully inspect your home and exterminate any existing infestations of Florida ticks.

Schedule a meticulous inspection from Suncoast Pest Control and we will keep your home Florida tick Free!

Call us immediately before it is too late! 1-800-270-3086