Common Tick Species on Long Island

Did you know that Long Island is one of the most tick-prone areas in the United States? In fact, Suffolk County consistently ranks among the top regions for Lyme disease cases in New York State. One local family reported finding over a dozen ticks on their dog after a single walk through a wooded park—underscoring how easy it is to bring these pests home without even realizing it. With its wooded trails, coastal brush, and backyard greenery, the region provides the perfect habitat for ticks to thrive. Unfortunately, that means a greater risk of tick-borne illnesses for residents and their pets. Knowing which tick species are common in the area—and how to spot and prevent them—is the first step in protecting your family.

Several tick species are prevalent on Long Island, each with distinct characteristics and associated health concerns:

Blacklegged Tick (Ixodes scapularis)

Often referred to as the deer tick, the blacklegged tick is notorious for transmitting Lyme disease. These small ticks, with adult females displaying a reddish-orange body and black legs, are commonly found in wooded areas and tall grasses.

Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum)

Recognizable by the distinctive white spot on the back of adult females, lone star ticks are aggressive feeders, often biting humans and pets more readily than other species. Their bites can cause irritation and allergic reactions and, in some cases, lead to serious health conditions like Alpha-Gal Syndrome. They inhabit similar environments as the blacklegged tick and have been linked to ehrlichiosis and tularemia.

American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis)

Larger than the previous species, American dog ticks have brown bodies with white or gray markings. They are primarily found in grassy fields and along trails and can transmit diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Tick-Borne Health Risks on Long Island

Unfortunately, ticks don’t just irritate—they carry real health risks. Ticks are vectors for various diseases that can affect both humans and animals:

• Lyme Disease: Caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, Lyme disease can lead to symptoms like fever, fatigue, joint pain, and a characteristic "bull's-eye" rash. If untreated, it may result in more severe complications affecting the heart and nervous system.

• Ehrlichiosis: Transmitted by the lone star tick, this bacterial infection can cause fever, headaches, and muscle aches. Prompt antibiotic treatment is essential to prevent severe illness.

• Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever: Spread by the American dog tick, this disease presents with fever, rash, and potentially serious complications if not treated early.

• Babesiosis: An emerging concern, babesiosis is caused by a parasite that infects red blood cells, leading to flu-like symptoms. It is primarily transmitted by the blacklegged tick.

• Alpha-Gal Syndrome: Associated with lone star tick bites, this condition can trigger an allergic reaction to red meat, manifesting as hives, digestive issues, or even anaphylaxis hours after consumption.

Tick Prevention Tips for Long Island Homes

Reducing the risk of tick bites involves a combination of personal precautions and environmental management:

Personal Protection

• Wear Appropriate Clothing: When venturing into tick-prone areas, opt for long sleeves, pants, and enclosed shoes. Tuck pants into socks to minimize skin exposure.

• Use Insect Repellents: Apply EPA-registered repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin.

• Conduct Regular Tick Checks: After outdoor activities, thoroughly inspect your body, clothing, and pets for ticks. Prompt removal reduces the likelihood of disease transmission.

Environmental Management

• Maintain Your Yard: Mow lawns, remove leaf litter, and create barriers of wood chips or gravel between wooded areas and recreational spaces to deter tick migration.

• Discourage Wildlife: Deer and rodents can carry ticks into your yard. Implement fencing and remove food sources to reduce their presence.

Pet Protection

• Use Veterinary-Approved Tick Preventatives: Consult your veterinarian about appropriate pet tick control products.

• Regular Grooming and Inspection: Frequently brush and inspect pets, especially after they've been outdoors, to detect and remove ticks promptly.

By staying informed about the types of ticks prevalent on Long Island and the health risks they pose, residents can take proactive steps to safeguard their families and pets. Implementing preventive measures and remaining vigilant during outdoor activities are key components in reducing the threat of tick-borne illnesses.

Contact Luxe Pest Control Today

For comprehensive tick prevention and yard protection strategies tailored to your Long Island property, contact Luxe Pest Control. The team provides effective solutions to reduce tick activity and help keep your home and loved ones safe. Call 800-585-LUXE (5893) or visit the contact page to take the next step toward protecting your family, pets, and peace of mind. to learn more or schedule an appointment.