Identifying Lawn Pests: Fleas, Ticks, and What to Do About Them

Before treating, know your enemy. Fleas: 1/16-1/8", reddish-brown, wingless, vertically flattened, prodigious jumpers. Eggs: white, oval. Larvae: worm-like, straw-colored with brown heads. Ticks: Hard ticks (visible mouthparts, shield-shaped body) vs. soft ticks (sac-like, hidden mouthparts). Both transmit diseases—Lyme from deer ticks is the best-known threat.

Habitat Management First

Rodents and birds bring ticks/fleas into yards. Screen chimneys, seal vents, remove brush piles. Reducing host habitat breaks the cycle more effectively than broadcast spraying. Targeted treatment of pet areas and perimeter zones, combined with wildlife exclusion, creates lasting reduction.