Flea & Tick Identification & Prevention Guide

What are fleas & ticks?

Fleas and ticks are common parasitic pests here in the greater Austin area of Texas that feed on the blood of their warm-blooded mammal hosts as their only source of food. Fleas are tiny, reddish-brown insects and have hard bodies that are flattened from side to side. They have powerful back legs that they use to jump to great heights and move through the fur of their host. Ticks, like the spiders and mites they are closely related to, are not insects but arachnids. Adults have oval-shaped bodies and eight legs. They come in a variety of colors including black, brown, gray, and red. Ticks are wingless and are unable to jump.

Are fleas & ticks dangerous?

Fleas carry and transmit a variety of parasites that they can pass on to people and animals such as tapeworm. Many humans are allergic to flea saliva and develop an itchy, red rash after a bite that, with excessive itching, may lead to an infection. Ticks are dangerous pests because of the diseases they spread to both people and animals. They feed on a variety of hosts enabling them to spread a wide range of bacteria and viruses.

Why do I have a flea & tick problem?

Both fleas and ticks thrive in warm, humid weather and live outside, usually on their hosts. People and pets often come into contact with fleas and ticks at campsites, parks, dog parks, kennels, and grooming facilities. However, it is their wild animal hosts that typically introduce fleas and ticks into your yard. Once on your property, they'll find their way inside sooner or later – either on you or your pets. Fleas are also commonly introduced into a home inside used furniture or rugs already infested with adults, eggs, or larvae.

Where will I find fleas & ticks?

Ticks live outside either on their host or in areas such as ditches, along pond edges, at the edge of the woods or in tall grass. Ticks are mainly an outdoor pest, as most species are unable to breed indoors. Fleas, on the other hand, are capable of reproducing inside and have the potential to create a large-scale infestation. Outside, fleas either live in the fur of their host or in the shady, moist areas underneath bushes, decks, or shrubs.

How do I get rid of fleas & ticks?

At Roberts Termite & Pest Control, we have been providing high-quality pest control here in Austin, TX for over 60 years. Our technicians use environmentally friendly products and advanced techniques to get rid of fleas, ticks, and other common pests. Through quality customer service and flexible scheduling, we work with you to meet your unique pest control needs. Learn more about our pest control services or schedule a free consultation by reaching out to Roberts Pest Control today!

How can I prevent fleas & ticks in the future?

In addition to our professional services, the following prevention tips will help you to prevent problems with fleas and ticks in your home or business:

• Put your pets on year-round flea and tick control under the guidance of their veterinarian.

• Keep the grass cut short and prune overgrown shrubs and bushes.

• Regularly wash pet bedding and vacuum your house.

• Regularly bathe and groom your pets.

• Remove bird feeders from your property.

• Don't buy used upholstered furniture or rugs for your home.

• Place a barrier of crushed rock or stone between wooded areas and your lawn.

• Ensure trash cans and compost bins have tight-fitting lids to stop wild animals from feeding on your property and introducing fleas and ticks onto it.