As we have warmer winters and more humid weather, ticks are thriving. As they thrive, so the instances of tick borne disease increases; first and foremost of these is Lyme disease. Anthony Stodart, ArdMoor’s MD, gives some handy tips on how best to avoid contracting it this season.
Ticks are small blood-sucking arthropods related to spiders, mites, and scorpions. Their life cycle has three stages: larva, nymph, and adult. Larvae look like tiny specks, nymphs are pinhead-sized, and adult ticks resemble small spiders with eight legs.
Ticks are active year-round but peak between March and October in warmer weather. These parasites thrive in long grass, bracken, and overgrown vegetation where they attach to animals and humans. Ticks can carry infectious diseases, including Lyme disease, making tick awareness and prevention essential for outdoor activities.
Lyme disease is the most common tick-borne illness and can become a serious long-term condition if untreated. Symptoms include fatigue, muscle pain, and potential nervous system issues. Early treatment improves recovery, so prevention and quick removal are key.
Ticks don’t jump or fly, they latch onto clothing or skin when you brush past vegetation. They crawl to warm, moist areas before biting and feeding on blood.
How to prevent tick bites and Lyme disease:
- Wear long sleeves and tuck trousers into socks or use gaiters to reduce skin exposure.
- Avoid long grass and dense vegetation; stick to clear paths.
- Use anti-tick, insect-repellent clothing when in high-risk areas.
- Apply insect repellent (reapply as needed depending on strength).
- Shower after outdoor activities and check your body, family, and pets thoroughly (head, knees, armpits, groin, waistband).
- Check pets regularly to prevent ticks spreading indoors.
- Wash clothes after use to remove hidden ticks.
Tick removal and treatment:
If you find a tick, do not squeeze, burn, or apply chemicals. Use tweezers or a tick removal tool to pull it out steadily without twisting. Clean the area with antiseptic afterward.
Watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or a bullseye rash. Seek medical advice promptly if symptoms appear or if you feel unwell within 3–4 weeks of a bite - early Lyme disease symptoms can resemble flu.
At ArdMoor, we take tick protection seriously. Our range of anti-tick clothing and outdoor gear helps keep you and your family safe while enjoying the countryside.
Our Recommended Products:
The Northern Hunting Toke Light Tanatex Outdoor Trousers:
Designed for versatility, comfort and protection in the outdoors, the Northern Hunting Toke Light Tanatex Outdoor Trousers are a practical choice for British men who spend time walking, exploring or working in the countryside. Lightweight, breathable and engineered with insect-repellent technology, they're ideal for warmer months when comfort and mobility are key.
The Harkila Trail L/S Shirt:
The Harkila Deer Stalker Full Zip Fleece Hoodie:
The Pinewood InsectSafe Coolmax Long Socks:
The Lifesystems Tick Remover Card:
The Lifesystems DEET-free Tick Repellent:
Lifesystems Expedition Tick DEET-Free Repellent 25ml is a compact spray that provides 10hrs protection per application from ticks. The spray is DEET-free and made using Saltidin, scientifically-proven to repel ticks and other small insects. Keep ticks away this summer with the pocket-sized Lifesystems Expedition Tick DEET-Free Repellent.
And For your Dog?
The Animology Flea & Tick Shampoo:
This Flea & Tick shampoo helps to remove fleas and ticks, soothing irritated skin and improves the health and strength, condition of the coat. Infused with the Animology Medicated scent and is available in a 250ml tube. Treat your dog with this award winning grooming product used by top groomers, show dog owners and thousands of owners across the world.
The Lifesystem Tick Tweezers:
Lifesystems Tick Tweezers are the perfect remedy for those pesky ticks this summer. This small tweezer-style tick tool comes with a handy plastic sleeve. Designed for any size of tick, the Lifesystems Tick Tweezers tool is made from stainless steel and great for keeping in your pocket when you and your dog are out and about this summer. For use on pets and humans and a must for anyone with dogs in spring and summertime.
Please find below useful links for you to follow if you would like any further information about ticks & Lyme Disease:
- NHS Lyme Disease information