How do Ticks Feed?
How do ticks find a host? Most of the time ticks lie in the tall grass and brush waiting for a host (dog, rabbit, or Scout) to pass by. Ticks sense movement in the grass or odors or carbon dioxide changes in their area. Once an appropriate host passes, the tick attaches itself. Ticks do not fly and they can not run or jump- they have to grab on. They then crawl along until they find an appropriate place to bite. Once the tick finds an appropriate location, the tick uses its mouth parts to burrow into the skin. The mouthparts have barbs which helps the tick secure itself to the host. Once attached the tick secrets a cementing material that provides a stronger anchor for its head. The tick then secrets saliva which contains a neurotoxin. This deadens the nerves and prevents the host from sensing the tick bite. The saliva also contains a blood thinner which makes it easier to ingest blood. Removing a Tick Many of the folk lore methods for removing a tick can actually increase the chance o
