So what ticks do you have to look out for in Florida? Which diseases do we have to contend with? There are a few different species in the Sunshine State, most seeing their peak populations sitting between March and July - each capable of carrying unique sets of diseases and infections. "Most people are infected by nymphal stages during the spring and summer," said the Florida Department of Health, "Nymphs are often small enough to escape notice and so can stay attached longer than adults, increasing risk of disease transmission." While not all ticks carry pathogens, the Florida Lyme Disease Association says that number is on the rise. Ticks carry a host of different diseases, with the most commonly transmitted diseases in Florida being Lyme Disease, Ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and other spotted fever illnesses. A tick's entire lifecycle can take anywhere from a few months to a couple of years, all depending on the species and its environmental conditions. They'll need to feed in this stage to be able to lay eggs and start the cycle anew. Once fed they'll molt, entering into the nymph stage, where they'll grow a 4th leg and continue their search for blood.Īfter getting their fill in the nymph stage, they'll molt again, progressing into being an adult. After they've hatched, larvae typically will have three legs and immediately begin their search for a host for their first blood feast. Ticks in Florida will go through four lifecycle stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. With the increase in the frequency of tick-borne illnesses in recent years and peak-tick season right around the corner, it's crucial to be in the know on which species of ticks in Florida exist and where they live - as well the risks that they pose to your health. The Sunshine State, while famous for its pristine sands, thrilling theme parks, and crystal clear blue springs, its tropical climate creates a brilliant breeding ground for a variety of creepy crawlies to thrive.
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