People often believe that fleas and ticks are easily avoided in households that do not have pets. However, these dreaded insects may find their way into an unsuspecting pet-free person’s home despite the absence of resident animals. Therefore, everyone should take steps to minimize the risk of a flea or tick invasion.
Tidying Up
Cleanliness is a critical component to making a home less habitable for fleas and ticks. Removing brush piles, stone, and other forms of yard debris will eliminate hiding places where fleas and ticks can lay eggs. In addition to organic matter, gardening tools and containers should always be stacked neatly, and storage areas should be cleaned and organized at the end of each growing season.
Deterring Carriers of Fleas and Ticks
While wildlife may be fun to watch, mammals that commonly live in forested areas are often carriers of the insects most households wish to avoid. Fleas and ticks use squirrels, rabbits, raccoons, mice, deer, and even feral cats as a blood source. These animals enter people’s yards in search of foods like spilled birdseed, wild berries that may grow on shrubs, and even trash. Animals should not be allowed to occupy space in sheds or under decks. When trash is placed outside for pickup, it should be carefully secured in plastic bags to minimize odor before placing in a trash tightly-closed can.
The Role of Landscaping
Overgrown grass is a common dwelling place for fleas and ticks. By keeping the lawn mowed and maintained at a short length, sunlight is able to reach the ground and dry excess moisture. If no moisture source is present, fleas and ticks are more likely to seek refuge elsewhere. Greater sunlight exposure and drier soil will also help attract ants and spiders, which are natural predators to fleas and ticks. Homeowners may also wish to consider trimming back overgrown vegetation and planting cedar around their property to discourage the invasion of blood-sucking insects. A natural flea and tick repellent, cedar can also be applied to the yard as a mulch.
Professional Assistance
For more information about ticks or any type of pest control, contact Clegg’s online or on the phone at 888-672-5344 for a complete evaluation of your home or business.
