A few weeks ago, I was mowing the lawn with my old, barely-working mower. My golden retriever, Mochi, lounged under the oak tree without a care in the world. That’s when I felt an odd tickle on my ankle.
At first, I assumed it was a mosquito. But when I looked down, I saw something far worse—a tiny black dot clinging to my skin. It wasn’t moving, and it definitely wasn’t flying away. I carefully removed it. There it was: a lone star tick, unmistakable with its white spot.
Why Ticks Are No Joke
Mosquito bites and bee stings are annoying but tolerable. Ticks, though, are a different story—they can spread serious illnesses, and the lone star tick is among the worst.
Meet the Lone Star Tick
Named for the white spot on the female’s back, this tick isn’t a passive hitchhiker. It actively hunts in grassy or wooded areas, making quick removal essential.
What to Do If You Find One
Don’t panic. Using fine-tipped tweezers, grasp the tick close to your skin and pull steadily—no twisting or jerking. Clean the bite area afterward, and save the tick in a sealed container, noting the date and location.
Watch for Symptoms
Over the following weeks, monitor for fever, rash, fatigue, or muscle aches. If any appear, seek medical care immediately.
Prevention Is Key
Wear long sleeves and pants outdoors, use repellents with DEET or permethrin, and always check yourself, kids, and pets after returning indoors. At home, keep grass short, clear brush, and create barriers with gravel or mulch.
Ticks are unsettling, but awareness and prevention make the outdoors safer to enjoy.
