Ticks Vs. Bed Bugs: How to Tell the Difference
Ticks and bed bugs might be tiny, but they can cause big problems in our homes and lives. These unwanted guests can turn up out of the blue, and more worryingly, go unnoticed for some time. If you're worried about these pests entering your home, it's important that you can tell the difference between a tick and a bed bug.
In this article, we'll discuss the behavior and physical characteristics of bugs and ticks, the health problems they can cause, and where you might find them. Most importantly, we'll explore how you can eliminate these creatures and create a pest-free environment.
Ticks: Tiny Bloodsuckers, Big Health Risks
Did you know that ticks are part of the arachnid family—the same family as spiders and mites? While you might not mind sharing your home with one or two spiders, living with ticks is another story. These eight-legged, oval-shaped parasites are relentless in their quest to feast on blood and will try to hitch a ride on humans and animals. Once latched on, they will continue to suck the blood of their unwilling and often unsuspecting host until they are removed.
Checking for ticks is important if you live in an area where they are known to be common. Unliked Bed Bugs, you are most likely to find ticks outside. They usually get onto you by your feet and ankles, usually from the tops of tall blades of grass or leaf piles. If you like to spend time in the yard or go on long hikes in green or wooded areas, the likelihood of ticks finding their way onto you increases substantially.
Ticks are more than just a nuisance; they can present some serious health risks, too. From Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever to tick-borne encephalitis, tick diseases and the dangers they represent should never be ignored.
Bed Bugs: The Sneaky Intruders and Expert Hiders
Now that you know how to identify a tick, let's take a closer look at bed bugs. These stealthy pests can turn a restful night's sleep into a nightmare practically overnight. Unlike ticks, bed bugs are classified as insects. These tiny, brown bugs have evolved over millions of years to become experts at hiding and invading our homes without us realizing it.
In the summer, bed bugs are most likely to find their way into your home via travel. Bed bugs often find their ways into your home through suitcases or other travel bags. They are most likely to bite you, as their name suggests, in your bed while you sleep. Evidence of bed bugs include small agitated welts appearing on your back of tiny spots of blood appear in your mattress. Bed bugs can also be found in places near your bed beyond your mattress including in headboards and nightstands.
Bed bugs just love a cozy space. After all, it's how they got their name. You'll often find them in mattresses, box springs, and crevices in furnishings. And once you have them, you'll want to get rid of them very quickly. They have adapted well to the modern world, hiding in beds, sofas, clothing and even luggage. They can turn up when you least expect, too. If your kid is in college, for example, make sure they aren't bringing bed bugs home when they come back to visit.
Bed bugs feast on human blood overnight, taking advantage of us as we sleep. If you've been waking up with itchy, red welts on your skin, there's a good chance you have a case of these nocturnal biters. While bed bugs don't transmit diseases, an infestation can cause significant stress, anxiety, and sleep deprivation.
Viking Pest: Your Trusted Partner in Pest Control
At Viking Pest, we know our ticks from our bed bugs and know all the effective ways to prevent and treat an infestation. We tackle pest problems head-on, offering comprehensive solutions and products tailored to your individual needs.
When it comes to tick control, we offer a range of highly effective measures designed to eliminate ticks from your property. From targeted treatments to yard inspections, our services will ensure you can enjoy your outdoor spaces without the fear of becoming a passenger for these disease-ridden pests.
For bed bugs, we use a state-of-the-art bed bug treatment to stay one step ahead of these stealthy and persistent pests. Our skilled technicians will conduct a thorough inspection of the affected areas of your home and put together a customized treatment plan. We'll also give you guidance on preventing a future infestation.
We're proud of the service we offer our customers and the reputation we've built. Viking was rated one of the three best bed bug control companies in the country by Better Homes & Gardens magazine.
Contact us today for a free pest control estimate. Say goodbye to ticks and bed bugs and reclaim your space both indoors and outdoors.
