Can ticks survive in my house during winter?

Tick Survival Requirements

Ticks require a certain level of humidity and temperature to survive. They can survive for several months without feeding if they are in a location with a consistent temperature between 32°F and 50°F (0°C and 10°C) and humidity levels above 50%. If your home has a warm spot, such as a laundry room or a bathroom, it can be an ideal location for ticks to survive the winter.

Tick Habitats in the Home

Ticks can hide in dark, humid areas of the home, such as basements, crawl spaces, and near heating vents. They are attracted to warmth and moisture, so areas with high humidity, such as laundry rooms, bathrooms, and kitchens, are more likely to harbor ticks. To reduce the likelihood of ticks surviving in your home, make sure to use a dehumidifier, especially in areas prone to moisture.

Prevention and Removal

To prevent ticks from surviving in your home, it’s essential to eliminate any areas where they can hide and feed. Regularly vacuum and dust all areas, paying particular attention to dark, humid spots. When removing ticks, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible and pull upward with steady, even pressure. Do not squeeze or twist the tick, as this can cause the mouthparts to break off and remain in the skin, increasing the risk of infection.