Keeping ticks at bay: The unsung heroes in your garden
3:33 PM EDT, July 13, 2024
Ticks have their natural enemies, which you are better off not driving out of your garden. If you want to get rid of these arachnids, you need to know what animals feed on them. Thanks to these animals, you will feel much safer.
Ticks are most active during the spring and summer seasons. During this time, their bites can transmit dangerous diseases, such as Lyme disease or tick-borne encephalitis. Therefore, it is worth being cautious and thoroughly inspecting your body after returning from green areas. If you have a garden, don't shoo away these animals. Thanks to them, there will be fewer ticks, and you will feel safer.
What animals feed on ticks?
While we may run away from ticks, some animals run to them. These animals feast on ticks, removing them from our environment. So, what are these animals?
The natural enemies of ticks, which help reduce their population, are primarily birds such as sparrows and tits, which often peck them out of grasses. Additionally, small mammals like rats, mice, and shrews consider ticks a tasty delicacy.
It is also worth remembering that ants feed on ticks, which we often dislike. If you want to eliminate ants from your garden, choose wisely. Ants, unfortunately, and fortunately, do more good than ticks. Out of the two evils, ants are the more pleasant neighbors.
Ticks transmit dangerous diseases
Ticks are especially dangerous to humans due to the diseases they carry. Even with a light bite, changes often appear on the skin, which is allergic, purulent, and swollen. In such cases, contact a doctor immediately.
- If you know you have been bitten by a tick, any skin changes should prompt a quick visit to the doctor. There is no vaccine for Lyme disease. Every suspected infection should be consulted with a doctor.