and related species: Ixodes scapularis, I. dammini, I. pacificus, I. ricinus, a.k.a. Western Black Legged tick, Black Legged tick, European Wood tick, Sheep tick, Seed tick.

Range: These ticks are found throughout the United States and feed mostly on deer, cattle and other large animals, including humans.

Habitat: They are found along paths, trails and roadways.

Health risks: This group of ticks is known to cause Lyme disease, babesiosis and ehrlichiosis. Lyme disease is spreading rapidly, and is now the most frequently diagnosed tick-transmitted illness in the United States. It is caused by bacteria and is most likely to be contracted during the months of June through September, when people are outdoors. Lyme disease is also becoming a veterinary problem. Dogs and horses in areas where the disease is common have developed joint problems that veterinarians believe are caused by Lyme bacteria.

Management: Use Talstar® products after clipping grass, removing brush and pruning trees to allow more sunlight to penetrate to the soil surface.

Download our Best Management Practices sheet for more information.