Tick Talk: What You Need to Know About These Tiny Hitchhikers

As we head into warmer months and spend more time outdoors, it's worth brushing up on one of nature’s smallest – and sneakiest – pests: ticks. These tiny creatures might be easy to miss, but the health risks they pose are anything but small.

What Are Ticks?

Ticks are small arachnids (yes, like spiders) that survive by feeding on the blood of animals and humans. They don’t fly or jump – instead, they wait patiently on tall grass or shrubs for a host to pass by, then latch on. Once attached, they can remain feeding for several days if undisturbed.

Why Should You Be Concerned?

While not all ticks are harmful, some carry pathogens that can be transmitted through their bite. In the UK and across Europe, the most well-known tick-borne illness is Lyme disease, caused by a bacterium transmitted during feeding. Early symptoms include a circular rash, fever, fatigue, and muscle pain. If left untreated, Lyme disease can affect the nervous system, joints and even the heart.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is another concern in parts of mainland Europe, particularly in wooded or rural areas. Though less common, it can cause inflammation of the brain and lead to more severe complications.

Where Are Ticks Found?

Ticks thrive in areas with vegetation and wildlife. In the UK, they're often found in woodlands, heathlands, moorlands and grassy areas. Regions like the South of England, the Lake District, and parts of Scotland see particularly high numbers. In Europe, countries such as Germany, Austria, France, and Sweden are known hotspots.

You don’t have to be deep in the wilderness to come into contact with ticks – even local parks, campsites and back gardens can play host.

How Can You Prevent Tick Bites?

• Cover Up: Wear long sleeves and trousers when walking through grassy or wooded areas. Tucking your trousers into your socks might not be fashionable, but it’s effective.
• Stay on Paths: Avoid brushing through long grass and undergrowth where ticks are more likely to be lurking.
• Check Yourself and Others: After outdoor activities, inspect your skin (and your pets) carefully, especially around the ankles, knees, waist, neck and scalp.
• Use Repellent: Applying a proven tick repellent to exposed skin and clothing can help deter ticks before they bite.

For more detailed guidance on how to prevent and remove ticks safely, visit: https://www.lessmosquito.com/pages/avoiding-tick-bites