How Maine’s Milder Than Usual Winter Is Affecting Ticks

March 23, 2023

Deer ticks in Maine

Deer ticks are tiny arachnids that feed on the blood of humans and animals. Here in Maine, they are often found in wooded areas, grassy fields, and other outdoor environments where they can latch onto passing hosts. When an infected deer tick bites, it can transmit a range of dangerous diseases, including Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis.

deer tick on a tree ready to drop on an unsuspecting maine homeowner

One major factor that affects tick populations in Maine is weather

Ticks thrive in warm, moist environments, and this year's mild winter has created the perfect conditions for almost year-round tick activity. In fact, according to a recent report from the National Pest Management Association, tick populations are expected to be at an all-time high this year. 

Tick experts are saying these pests could be a year-round threat

Historically in the Northeast, our winters were cold enough to kill off ticks for a season. That’s not necessarily the case anymore. Without the extended cold weather, there’s increased chance ticks will be active when they’re supposed to be dormant. That means, residents of the Pine Tree state could see tick bites all year long. 

So, what can you do to protect yourself from ticks? 

Rather than keeping your family and pets indoors to avoid ticks no matter the season, we’ve put together a few tick prevention tips: 

  • Wear protective clothing. When you're spending time outdoors, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to cover as much of your skin as possible. Tuck your pants into your socks to create a barrier for ticks.
  • Apply EPA-registered insect repellent to your clothing before heading outdoors. Be sure to follow the instructions on the label carefully.
  • After spending time outdoors, carefully check your skin and clothing for ticks. Don't forget to check your pets as well, as ticks can easily hitch a ride on them.
  • Avoid trailblazing in tall grass and wooded areas where ticks are more likely to be found. Stay on cleared paths and trails. 
  • Shower after being outdoors. Taking a shower after spending time outdoors can help wash away any ticks that may be lingering on your skin.
  • Speak with your vet about tick control for your pets

Know the symptoms of tick-borne illnesses

Ticks may be small, but they can pose a big threat to our health. That’s why it’s important to know the symptoms of tick-borne illnesses, such as fever, headache, and rash. If you develop any of these symptoms after being bitten by a tick, seek medical attention right away.

Have your property treated for ticks

Protecting your family and pets from ticks in Maine is an absolute must. But you also need to be able to enjoy spending time in your own backyard without worrying about tick bites. That’s why Pine State Pest Solutions offers seasonal tick treatments in Auburn, Freeport, and Gardiner as well as across our multi-county service area that drastically reduce the population of disease-spreading pests. 

If you’d like to learn more about our solution for ticks, please contact our locally owned Maine pest control company today. We’ll be starting our seasonal tick treatments soon so don’t wait to sign up! 

 

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