Ticks are active throughout much of Idaho and remain a concern for pets, livestock, and people. Although many pests slow down in cold weather, ticks have adapted to survive winter conditions. Understanding their behavior helps homeowners take steps to reduce exposure and protect their families and pets.
Below is a breakdown of important facts about ticks and how they behave during Idaho winters.
Key Facts About Ticks
Ticks crawl, not fly
Ticks do not jump or fly. They reach people and animals by climbing onto shoes, legs, or clothing. Once attached, they move upward to find a warm, protected place to feed. Hair and scalp areas are especially common hiding spots.Ticks come in many sizes
Different species vary in size, ranging from tiny poppy seed sized nymphs to larger adult ticks. Smaller life stages are often missed because they are so difficult to see.Ticks do not die in winter
Most ticks, including deer ticks, survive freezing temperatures. They remain active anytime temperatures rise above freezing. When snow is present or the ground is fully frozen, ticks shelter in leaf litter, soil, or protected vegetation until conditions improve.Ticks carry multiple diseases
Tick borne pathogens have increased over recent decades. Ticks can transmit several microbes including Lyme disease bacteria, Anaplasma, Ehrlichia, Babesia, rickettsial infections, encephalitis viruses, and others. Increased wildlife movement into populated areas has expanded the risk.Deer ticks are the primary carrier of Lyme disease
Lyme disease is transmitted through the bite of infected deer ticks or closely related species. A tick must attach and feed for a period of time before transmission occurs.Time matters after a tick bite
In general, ticks must be attached for at least 24 hours before most diseases can be transmitted. Daily tick checks are one of the most effective ways to reduce risk.Tick nymphs are extremely easy to miss
Nymphs resemble tiny dark specks on the skin. About one quarter of deer tick nymphs carry disease causing microbes. Because bites are painless, many people do not realize they were bitten.Safe tick removal
Fine pointed tweezers work best. Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull straight out with steady pressure. Clean the area afterward.Tick prevention
When spending time outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas, wear long sleeves and pants and use tick repellent clothing or products. Light colored clothing makes ticks easier to spot.
House and Yard Tick Control in Idaho
Ticks can transmit several diseases in Idaho, affecting people, pets, and livestock. Even though Lyme disease is less common here than in other regions, other tick borne illnesses remain a concern.
Good prevention includes:
- Keeping grass and vegetation trimmed
- Removing leaf litter where ticks shelter
- Maintaining fencing to reduce wildlife encroachment
- Inspecting pets regularly
- Reducing shaded, moist areas that attract ticks
Professional treatments can create a protective barrier around the yard, reduce tick habitat zones, and help manage activity throughout the warm season. If you are noticing ticks on your pets or around your property, trained technicians can assess the surrounding conditions and provide targeted solutions.