Here’s Why You Should Stay Protected Year-Round

When the temperature drops, many people assume that ticks die off for the season and that the risk of tick bites disappears with the first frost. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. At Knockout Mosquito and Tick Control, we want to make sure homeowners in and Monmouth County, Ocean county and Middlesex County NJ understand the facts: ticks can survive the winter—and they can still pose a threat to your family and pets.

How Do Ticks Survive Cold Weather?

Ticks are remarkably resilient. While some insects truly die off in winter, ticks go into a dormant state called diapause. During this phase, they seek shelter under leaf litter, in wooded areas, or within animal burrows, where the temperature is slightly warmer and more stable.

Certain species, like the black-legged tick (deer tick), are even active during winter months if temperatures are above freezing and there’s minimal snow cover. That means a warm winter day could be enough for ticks to become active and start looking for a host.

Why You Should Be Concerned

Even in winter, ticks carry the same diseases they do in spring and summer, including:

• Lyme disease
• Anaplasmosis
• Babesiosis
• Ehrlichiosis

These diseases can be transmitted during any tick bite, no matter the time of year. If your property has wooded areas, dense vegetation, or frequently hosts wildlife like deer or rodents, you’re at risk for winter tick activity.

Winter Tick Prevention Tips

While it might seem unnecessary to worry about ticks in the winter, taking a proactive approach can significantly reduce your risk:

• Clear leaf litter and brush from your yard to eliminate sheltering spots.
• Stack firewood neatly in a dry area to discourage small animals that can carry ticks.
• Keep pets protected with vet-recommended tick prevention treatments year-round.
• Maintain a tick control service even during the colder months to keep populations in check before spring hits.

Knock ‘Em Out, Keep ‘Em Out—All Year Long

At Knockout Mosquito and Tick Control, we don’t stop working just because the temperature drops. Our seasonal and year-round tick control services are designed to keep your home and yard safe—no matter the time of year. We use proven, environmentally-responsible treatments that target ticks where they live and breed.

Don’t wait until spring to start thinking about tick control—by then, it might be too late.

FAQ: Ticks in Winter

Can ticks really survive in the winter?

Yes, many ticks survive through winter by entering a dormant state known as diapause. Some species, like the black-legged (deer) tick, can even remain active during warmer winter days.

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Are ticks still a threat in cold weather?

Absolutely. If temperatures are above freezing and there’s minimal snow cover, ticks can emerge and bite. They can still transmit diseases like Lyme disease, even in the winter.

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Where do ticks go during the winter?

Ticks typically seek shelter in leaf litter, under brush, or in burrows of animals. These environments provide insulation and protection from the cold.

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Do I still need tick control in the winter?

Yes. Winter tick control helps keep populations low before they explode in spring. It also protects you and your pets during those surprise warm spells when ticks become active.

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Can I get Lyme disease from a tick bite in winter?

Yes, Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses can be transmitted any time a tick is active, including during winter. That’s why year-round prevention is important.

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What can I do to reduce ticks in my yard during winter?

Keep your yard clean by removing leaf litter, brush, and tall grass. Stack firewood neatly and away from your home, and keep pets on tick preventatives year-round. For maximum protection, consider professional tick control.

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How can Knockout Mosquito and Tick Control help?

We offer year-round tick control services tailored to your property. Our winter treatments target overwintering ticks and reduce the risk of bites and disease as the seasons change.

Stay Protected—Call Knockout Today

Whether it’s January or July, Knockout Mosquito and Tick Control is here to help you protect what matters most. Call us today at 732-788-7687 or email info@knockoutmosquitonj.com to schedule your consultation.