Why is There a Tick Surge in Missouri?

There’s plenty to do in Missouri where the outdoors is concerned. Numerous state and nature parks can be found, providing trails and waterways to explore. If you enjoy the outdoors, you may have seen the increased warnings about a tick surge, but why are they becoming more of a hazard in the region?

The Tick Surge and The Core Causes

Though this might sound like a problem for the season, ticks have been increasingly more problematic over the past five years, and there are concerns that this trend will only continue. One of the main reasons for the increasing tick surge is climate change affecting our weather patterns. The warmer seasons are starting earlier and lasting longer. Paired with this are heavier storm patterns battering the area. Rain forces the ticks higher onto plants, giving them the perfect spot to connect with a hiker’s shoes or clothing before they find their mark.

Another reason for the increase in the tick surge, as well as a cause for alarm for Missourians, is the Gulf Coast ticks, more commonly found in the southeast as the name suggests, are starting to call the region home. The Gulf Tick carries a tick-borne illness similar to the Rocky Mountain spotted fever, though often less severe.

Fall Tick Control to Reduce the Risk to Your Family

With the autumn season just around the corner, you’ll want to think about stepping up your tick control methods to help keep the risk low around your property. The 6 C’s of Tick Control by Mosquito Squad is an excellent way to start! These tips offer insight into where ticks could be hiding and how to deter their entry into your property.

The 6 C’s of Tick Control are: 

1. Clear Out tree and lawn debris from places they naturally gather. Avoid these places for playgrounds, decks, or patios. Ticks hate the sun.

2. Clean leaf litter and keep your grass short.

3. Choose Plants that deter deer and wildlife or create physical barriers to stop them from venturing into your yard.

4. Check Hiding Places such as fences, brick walls, or retaining walls.

5. Care for Family Pets with tick control to protect them from tick-borne illnesses.

6. Call the Pros

The Mosquito Squad of West St. Louis can help with this last step. Did you know that August is the start of Mosquito Squad’s fall tick control treatments? You can reduce the risk of the tick surge on your property and the dangerous diseases they can spread to your family and pets by having your property treated by the experts. Contact us today to find out how you can schedule your free quote to have your yard protected from these dangerous arachnids.

Don’t forget to follow the 6 C’s of tick control. Professional backyard tick control is the best way to reduce ticks on your property long-term. Mosquito Squad of West St. Louis County is here to help. We would love to be the reason you don’t have to worry that every time you step foot in your backyard, you could get bitten by a tick. Call our team today to request a free quote for West St. Louis County tick control services.