Warm temperatures, frequent rains, and high humidity are factors that help survival and reproduction of ticks and fleas. This summer has provided ideal conditions for both to flourish. EntFacts 602 (Flea Control and Protection) and EntFacts 628 (Smarter Flea Control)…
Blog Archives
Watch For Blacklegged Ticks
Adult blacklegged ticks seek hosts from November through March. They are active whenever the temperature is above about 40oF. Females (Figure 1) take blood meals from a variety of hosts, including humans and companion animals. Blacklegged ticks have been noticeably…
Posted in Human Pests, Pet Pests
Ticks May Be on the Rise This Year
A series of notes on the radio, television, and printed media has provided information on predicting high populations of ticks in New York this year. This is based on a plague of mice in the Hudson Valley in the summer…
Posted in Human Pests, Pet Pests
Two Species of Ticks Active During Kentucky Winters
Black-legged Tick In recent years, the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) (Figure 1) has become increasingly more common in Kentucky and now occurs throughout the state (Figure 2). Adults are active from November through March, whenever the temperature is above freezing.…
Dealing with Fleas
The cat flea (Figure 1) is the most common external parasite of dogs and cats. These small, hopping insects also bite humans. In addition to the discomfort of bites and the chance of secondary infection by contamination of bite sites,…
Posted in Human Pests, Pet Pests
Fleas
Flea problems tend to peak at the end of summer. Dealing with an infestation requires a significant amount of time, patience, and effort, as well as an approach that includes consideration of both the pet and its environment. Only an…
Posted in Pet Pests
Protecting Pets from Ticks
Pets, especially dogs, can easily pick up dozens of ticks as they wander in overgrown areas. Lone star ticks and American dog ticks are most common and can be active from spring into early fall. In addition to irritation and…
Posted in Pet Pests
Common Ticks in Kentucky
Lone star ticks are very active this spring. All stages of this species feed on humans, pets, livestock, and wildlife. Adults and nymphs are active now. Differences in size and appearance can be confusing, but the irritation and itching from…
Kentucky Pest News 