Like most ticks, the Asian longhorned tick is about 1/10 of an inch or 2.5mm — so small you probably won’t be able to tell them apart from other ticks at a glance. Because of their reddish brown color, they are often mistaken for brown dog ticks. After feeding, they expand and turn gray.

These ticks were first found in the U.S. in 2017, but because of their rapid spread, they have already been found in at least 20 states. Asian longhorned ticks live in almost all of the East and Southeastern U.S. and are most commonly found on livestock and in tall grasses.

While there have been no known cases of disease caused specifically by these ticks in the U.S., Asian longhorned ticks have been known to transmit diseases from livestock to people in other countries. However, this doesn’t mean they don’t carry any diseases. In general, all ticks are known to spread anaplasmosis, babesiosis, ehrlichiosis, theileriosis, rickettsiosis, and Thrombocytopenia Syndrome Virus.

The best way to keep Asian longhorned ticks at bay is through regular pest control and prevention. Keep all grass short and clean up plant debris and leaf litter. You’re most likely to come into contact with ticks when walking or hiking through grassy or wooded areas. If you do plan to be in tick-prone areas, it’s best to wear long socks and sleeves and use bug repellant. Afterward, thoroughly check your body and lint roll your clothing to pick up any stray ticks.

Even if you don’t venture outside, pets can bring ticks indoors. Make sure to treat your pets regularly and check them for ticks after they’ve been outdoors, on hikes, or in long grass.

If this invasive species or any other type of tick is taking over your space, give us a call. Our pest control experts will help you identify the source of your infestation and stop ticks in their tracks.