Be Vigilant During Tick Season
Whether you’re hiking in Regional Parks, venturing in nearby open spaces, or simply relaxing in your own yard, it’s important to be wary of ticks, which are often present in tall grass, brush, and wooded areas. Ticks carry germs that can cause a number of diseases, including Lyme disease. (Visit bayarealyme.org for more information.)
Most ticks can’t fly or jump. They wait on the tips of grasses and in shrubs along well used paths. With their front legs outstretched, they easily climb aboard unsuspecting hosts when they brush by.
Ticks Tips:
- Wear long pants, long sleeves, and closed-toe shoes in tick country.
- Tuck shirt into pants, and pants into socks.
- Stay on trails! Avoid brush and grassy areas.
- Use insect repellent on shoes, socks, and pants.
- Check yourself, your children, and your pets for ticks thoroughly and frequently.
What Does a Tick Look Like?
In California, the western black-legged tick is the major carrier of Lyme disease. The adult female is reddish brown with black legs, about 1/8 inch long. Males are smaller and entirely brownish-black. Both are teardrop shaped.
