Do ticks only come from the woods?

No, ticks do not only come from the woods. Ticks commonly live in landscaped yards, and wildlife often carries them closer to homes without homeowners realizing it.

Trusted Local Experience Since 1994

Serving single-family homeowners across Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland for over 30 years.

Why This Happens

This is one of the most common misunderstandings I hear from homeowners.

Ticks don’t respect property lines. While wooded areas are a natural source, ticks survive just as well in landscaped yards that provide shade, moisture, and cover.

Animals like deer, foxes, raccoons, squirrels, mice, and even birds regularly move through residential neighborhoods. As they travel, they drop ticks into flower beds, ground cover, lawn edges, and shaded areas near the house.

In Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland, many homes back up to green space, walking trails, or wooded buffers. Even well-maintained neighborhoods still experience steady wildlife traffic.

What This Means for Your Home

If you assume ticks only live deep in the woods, it’s easy to miss what’s happening closer to your living space.

Ticks often establish themselves near patios, play areas, dog paths, and fence lines—places where people and pets spend time. That’s why exposure can happen without ever stepping into the woods.

This is exactly why homeowners ask this question. They’re trying to understand risk without overreacting—and that’s the right approach.

When ticks settle into landscaped areas, activity usually increases slowly and quietly unless addressed.

How Professionals Address It

Professional tick control looks beyond the woods.

We inspect the entire property, focusing on wildlife entry points, shaded landscaping, ground cover, and transition areas between lawn and natural spaces.

The approach is exterior-first and targeted. We address where ticks live and travel, not just where they’re seen. Interior treatments are rarely necessary for tick issues.

Long-term control comes from reducing habitat, limiting wildlife pathways, and maintaining consistent exterior protection.

What Homeowners Can Do Now

Safe, DIY steps you can take:

• Reduce dense ground cover near the home

• Keep landscaping trimmed and well-spaced

• Remove leaf piles and debris along edges

• Limit wildlife attractants like fallen seed or unsecured trash

• Check pets and family after outdoor time

Avoid foggers, sprays, or home remedies. These often miss tick zones and don’t prevent re-infestation.

When to Call a Professional

If ticks are showing up on pets, clothing, or near outdoor living areas, it’s time for a professional inspection.

Early action helps prevent ticks from spreading deeper into the yard. An inspection explains what’s happening now and what can be done to protect your home long-term.

Most companies don’t explain this clearly. Experience makes the difference.

Mini FAQ

Can ticks live in a clean yard?
Yes. Even tidy yards can support ticks if wildlife passes through.

Do deer have to be present?
No. Smaller animals like mice and squirrels commonly carry ticks.

Will ticks disappear if wildlife leaves?
Not usually. Once established, ticks can remain without intervention.

Written by Planet Friendly Pest Control, serving Northern Virginia and Southern Maryland since 1994. This guidance reflects decades of hands-on inspection experience using outside-first, minimal-product pest control methods focused on long-term prevention and home protection.