Pest Control in Missouri
Lone Star Tick Identification and Property Tips
| Apr 22, 2022
Female lone star tick on a green blade of grass, showing the distinctive white spot on its back.
Lone star ticks are an important bite-prevention concern in Missouri. Recognizing a tick helps with reporting an encounter, but illness or an allergic reaction needs medical evaluation.
Identification and habits
Adult females have a pale spot on their back; males and younger ticks look different. Lone star tick bites are associated with alpha-gal syndrome, an allergy involving certain mammal-derived foods and products. Not every bite causes the condition.
What to do at your property
Record when and where a tick was found and remove attached ticks promptly using current CDC guidance. Ask a healthcare professional about symptoms following a bite. Discuss pet protection with a veterinarian. Around the property, identify recurring exposure areas and ask how habitat changes and selected yard service can fit together.
Photograph the pest clearly and note where and when it appeared. Ask Plank about identification and whether inspection, prevention or selected treatment is appropriate. The service scope and any follow-up are confirmed for your property.
Reference: CDC: alpha-gal syndrome.
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Photo: James Gathany / CDC; content provider Michael L. Levin. Public domain.
