When you head outdoors, you’re likely going to run into a few pests including ticks. These arachnids are in search of a host that can provide a blood meal. Understanding how ticks find you and where they like to hang out can help you avoid them. Check out how ticks find you and where you’re likely to encounter these pests.
How Ticks Find You
Ticks don’t have the greatest eyesight, so they have to rely on other strategies to find hosts. Two of these strategies include sensing and questing.
Sensing
Ticks have built-in sensors that allow them to detect a host. Like mosquitoes, they detect the carbon dioxide that is released when we exhale. These pests are also attracted to the lactic acid found in sweat. Body heat and odors can lead ticks to a host too. The vibrations created from movement can help ticks locate a host as well.
Questing
Questing is another strategy that ticks use to find hosts. This activity occurs when ticks rest on a blade of grass or on shrubs or plants. While holding onto the grass or plant, they keep their front legs outstretched. When people or animals walk by them, they latch onto their skin or clothing. Once ticks are on a host, they find a spot to bite and begin feeding.
Where Can You Encounter Ticks?
To avoid ticks, you need to know where they are likely to be found. We’ve made a list of places where you can encounter ticks.
- On a Walk or Hike: People often run into ticks while walking or hiking. Ticks like to hang out in wooded or grassy areas. When walking or hiking, it’s best to stick to the path. This will help you to avoid brushing against plants or grass where ticks could be hiding.
- In Your Yard: Though people often spot ticks in forests, these pests can be as close as your backyard. Keeping your grass cut short and plants trimmed can help to prevent ticks from hiding in your yard.
- Near Your Garden: Many people encounter ticks while working in their garden. These pests prefer damp and shaded environments, which gardens can provide. To prevent ticks from settling into your garden, avoid overwatering your plants and remove any leaf litter.
- Camping in the Woods: Spending time around the campfire is great, but campsites are often in areas where ticks thrive. You’ll want to regularly check for ticks during your outdoor adventure. Choosing a campsite that’s high and dry with minimal ground cover can also help.
When you spend time outside, you want to be on the lookout for ticks. Knowing how they find you and their common hiding spots will make it easier to avoid them. If you’re dealing with a tick problem, we’re here to help! Our Natural Insect Repellent protects against ticks, mosquitoes, and flies, helping you to enjoy your outdoor activities without worrying about these pests.