Ticks are out: what to know in May
Tick activity peaks in late spring — and your yard deserves as much attention as a walk in the woods.
Ticks become active as soon as consistently warm weather sets in, and their activity usually reaches its first and highest peak of the year in May. A second, lower peak occurs in late summer and early autumn.
A common misconception is that ticks are found only in forests. In reality, a large proportion of tick bites occur on country and residential properties, in parks, and along paths bordered by tall grass. Ticks neither jump nor drop from trees: they wait on grass and shrubs up to a meter high and cling to passers-by.
What actually reduces the risk on a property:
- mowing regularly, especially along paths and around the perimeter;
- clearing last year's leaves, fallen branches, and piles of plant debris;
- treating the grounds with acaricides at the start of the season;
- wearing light-colored clothing that covers the body and checking for ticks after every walk — the simplest and most effective measure.
If a tick does attach, remove it as quickly as possible and seek medical advice. Speed matters.
