Longhorn Tick Discovered in St. Louis County: What You Need to Know
A new and potentially dangerous invasive species has been discovered in St. Louis County—the Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis). Unlike native ticks, this species reproduces without mating, allowing populations to explode rapidly. Even more concerning? These ticks can carry serious diseases that threaten both humans and animals.
At Pure Pest + Lawn, we specialize in identifying and eliminating dangerous pests, including ticks, with family friendly, expert treatments. If you're worried about ticks on your property, now is the time to act.
What Is the Longhorn Tick, and Why Is It a Problem?
The Asian longhorned tick is an invasive species originally from East Asia. Since its first U.S. detection in 2017, it has spread rapidly across multiple states. Now, it's in St. Louis County, and experts warn that it could pose serious health risks.
Key concerns about the longhorn tick:
✅ Rapid reproduction – Females lay eggs without mating, leading to fast-growing infestations.
✅ Disease transmission – These ticks can carry bacteria and viruses that cause serious illnesses in both humans and livestock.
✅ Livestock danger – Infestations on animals can cause anemia, reduced milk production, and even death.
According to the Missouri Department of Agriculture, the longhorn tick has been found on cattle, dogs, deer, and even humans.
Where Are Longhorn Ticks Found?
Longhorn ticks prefer moist, grassy environments and are commonly found in:
🌿 Tall grass and wooded areas
🐾 On pets and livestock
🏡 Shady areas around homes and yards
Since they multiply quickly, a single tick sighting could indicate a much larger hidden population.
How to Protect Your Family and Pets from Ticks
If you spend time outdoors, it’s crucial to take preventative steps to reduce your risk of tick bites:
1. Keep Your Yard Maintained
Mow grass regularly and keep bushes trimmed.
Remove leaf piles, brush, and debris where ticks hide.
2. Protect Pets and Livestock
Use vet-approved tick preventatives for dogs, cats, and livestock.
Inspect animals frequently, especially after time outside.
3. Use Personal Protection
Wear light-colored clothing to spot ticks more easily.
Use EPA-approved tick repellents on skin and clothing (CDC Tick Prevention Guide).
Shower after outdoor activities to wash away any ticks.
What to Do If You Find a Longhorn Tick in St. Louis County
The St. Louis County Health Department is asking residents to report longhorn tick sightings. If you find a tick that you believe is not a typical Missouri tick, you can:
📌 Submit it for identification – Follow the instructions from St. Louis County Health.
📌 Monitor for symptoms – If bitten, watch for rash, fever, fatigue, or joint pain and contact a doctor.
📌 Consider professional tick treatment – If ticks are found on your property, professional control is the best solution.
How Pure Pest + Lawn Can Help You Stay Tick-Free
At Pure Pest + Lawn, we understand that you want a pest free home without putting your family or pets at risk. Our expert team provides:
✔ Comprehensive tick inspections – We identify risk areas on your property.
✔ Targeted treatments – We eliminate ticks often without entering your home.
✔ Long-term prevention plans – Custom strategies to keep ticks away year-round.
Take Action Before Ticks Take Over
📞 Schedule a free tick inspection to protect your family and pets today.
📚 Learn more about our pest control solutions to keep your home safe from all unwanted invaders.
