Ticks are a seasonal nuisance that can pose a persistent health threat to people and pets. As a New Hampshire resident, you’ll be better protected if you understand the different tick species prevalent in the area, how to identify them, and the health risks they carry.
In this guide, we’ll cover the types of ticks you may encounter in New Hampshire and other nearby areas. Learn about the most effective tick-prevention strategies to safeguard your home and family.
If you need effective tick prevention in New Hampshire, trust Pest Control Unlimited to protect your home. Call +1-888-649-9919 or complete our contact form today to schedule your customized tick control service.
Common Types of Ticks in New Hampshire
Researchers from the University of New Hampshire have identified several tick species that have infested the territory. Each tick species has unique characteristics, and knowing which ones you’re dealing with can make a big difference. Let’s explore the most common types of ticks that can infest your home or commercial establishment.
1. Blacklegged Tick (Deer Tick) – Ixodes scapularis
This is the most common tick species in the state and the primary vector of Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, and Babesiosis. They are active from early spring through late fall and often even into winter. You can find this species in wooded, brushy environments and the edges of lawns.
Here are some of their identifying characteristics:
- They are small and have a dark reddish-brown appearance.
- Most likely to transmit disease if attached for 24+ hours.
- Deer and small mammals often carry them.
2. American Dog Tick – Dermacentor variabilis
This species appears larger and more visible than the deer tick. It is usually found in open fields, walking trails, and grassy areas. While these ticks don’t spread Lyme disease, they are potential carriers of Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia.
Here are some features to note about this tick:
- They have a brown body with white or gray markings on its back.
- They are active during spring and summer.
- They commonly attach themselves to pets and humans.
3. Lone Star Tick – Amblyomma americanum
While relatively rare in the region, the Lone Star Tick is expanding northward and has already been spotted in New Hampshire. Compared to the previous two species mentioned, this one is more aggressive and can cause STARI (Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness) and even alpha-gal syndrome, a meat allergy triggered by tick bites.
Here are some notable characteristics of this species:
- You can easily identify them by the white “lone star” dot on the female’s back.
- They are active from early spring through late summer.
- Their bites often cause itching and irritation even without disease transmission.
4. Winter Tick – Dermacentor albipictus
This species primarily affects wildlife, particularly moose, and poses little to no threat to humans or pets. However, it plays a role in ecological balance and is worth noting for awareness.
Here are its common identifiers:
- They are medium to large compared to other tick species.
- Reddish-brown body with a pale, whitish shield (scutum) on the back.
- They become most active in the fall and early winter.
- They are commonly found in wildlife rather than humans or domestic pets.
Health Risks Associated With Ticks
Understanding the health risks associated with tick bites can help you act quickly and responsibly. While some tick-borne illnesses are mild, others can lead to serious health complications if not detected early.
Here are some of the most common tick-borne diseases and the symptoms to watch out for:
- Lyme Disease: Characterized by fatigue, fever, headache, and the hallmark bullseye rash.
- Anaplasmosis: Symptoms may include chills, muscle aches, and confusion.
- Babesiosis: A malaria-like illness that affects red blood cells, particularly dangerous for immunocompromised individuals.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
If a tick has recently bitten you, monitor for early warning signs:
- Fever or chills
- Body aches or joint pain
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Rashes (especially bullseye-shaped)
- Nausea or dizziness
If you or any family member presents any of these symptoms, it is highly recommended that you seek immediate medical attention. Early treatment reduces the risk of chronic illness.
Tick Prevention in New Hampshire
As the saying goes, an ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure. Protecting your family and pets from ticks starts with a proactive approach. Simple lifestyle habits and yard maintenance strategies can go a long way in keeping tick populations down. Here are some preventive measures to secure your home and pets and reduce the chances of an infestation.
Personal Protection Measures
When heading outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas, take these precautions:
- Wear long sleeves and long pants
- Tuck pants into socks to block access
- Wear light-colored clothing to spot ticks easily
- Use EPA-approved repellents, such as DEET or permethrin-treated clothing
- Perform thorough tick checks on yourself, your kids, and your pets
- Shower within two hours of being outdoors
Pet Protection
Your pets are more vulnerable to ticks. Remember that these pests don’t discriminate between people and pets. Help your furry friends stay safe with the following:
- Veterinarian-recommended flea and tick preventatives (topicals, collars, or oral meds)
- Regular grooming and full-body tick inspections after walks
- Keeping pet beds clean and in tick-free zones
Sign Up for Professional Tick Control Services
While DIY strategies help, nothing compares to a professional approach. One-time treatments disrupt the tick life cycle and reduce the risk to pets and families. However, quarterly programs and maintenance are best for recurring infestations and long-term treatment.
Trust the Experts From Pest Control Unlimited
When it comes to tick prevention in New Hampshire, our team is your first line of defense. Pest Control Unlimited provides expert tick control solutions that are safe, effective, and tailored to local environments.
Call +1-888-649-9919 or complete our contact form today to schedule your customized tick control service.
