Ticks are a common problem many homeowners face, especially during the warmer months. However, many people wonder what happens to ticks in the winter. Do they hibernate or die off? And, most importantly, do you still need to worry about them during the colder months? Tick control from Cape Cod Mosquito Squad in Wellfleet, MA, can certainly help. Also, take a look at the following guide, which explores what happens to these pests in the colder seasons and how you can prevent them from becoming a nuisance during this time of year. 

What Happens to Ticks in the Winter? 

Contrary to popular belief, ticks are still active during the winter. While they may not be as prevalent as in the summer, ticks are still out and about, searching for a host to feed on. In fact, ticks can be active during the fall and winter months when the temperature is above freezing. During this time, they are more likely to latch onto a host, such as a deer or a small mammal, to survive. Ticks are also resilient creatures that can survive in cold temperatures. Some tick species, such as the black-legged tick, have even been known to survive in temperatures as low as -22°F. This means that homeowners should not let their guard down when it comes to tick control during the winter months. 

How to Protect Yourself From Ticks 

There are several steps that you can take to protect yourself and your family from ticks during the winter. Here are some tips: 

• Keep your yard tidy: Ticks love to hide in tall grass and mounds of leaves, so make sure to keep your yard well-maintained. 
• Put on protective clothing: If you are going to be spending time outdoors, wear long-sleeved tops and bottoms. It's a good idea to tuck your pants into your socks, too, so ticks can't crawl up your legs. If possible, wear light-colored garments so you can easily spot a tick if one gets on you.
• Use tick repellent: Apply tick repellent to your skin and clothing to keep ticks at bay.
• Check for ticks regularly: After spending time outdoors, make sure to check yourself and your family members for any signs of these pests. Pay extra attention to areas such as your scalp, armpits, and groin. 
• Hire a professional: If you want to ensure that your home is free of ticks, consider hiring a professional tick control service. 

If you want to keep ticks at bay this winter, get in touch with Cape Cod Mosquito Squad in Wellfleet, MA. Since 2005, they have offered tick control services that can help protect homeowners and their yards. With their expertise and experience, they can provide effective solutions. To request a free quote, call them at (508) 589-4994 or visit their website to learn more.