By Brad Janssen

Ticks are more than a nuisance — here’s what homeowners in Des Moines need to know about local risks, prevention, and professional protection.

Key Takeaways

  • Ticks are present in the Des Moines metro and can carry diseases like Lyme.
  • They thrive in wooded areas, tall grass, and even suburban yards.
  • Prevention includes yard maintenance, pet protection, and professional treatments.
  • Janssen’s local expertise ensures targeted solutions for Iowa tick problems.

Ticks might not be the first pest that comes to mind when you think of Iowa, but they’re becoming more of a concern — even in the Des Moines metro. Warm summers, increased outdoor activity, and shifting weather patterns create the perfect environment for these tiny parasites. While not every tick carries disease, the risk is real enough that prevention should be part of your summer pest control plan.

Where Ticks Are Most Common in Iowa

Ticks thrive in:

  • Wooded areas and trails – Popular spots for outdoor recreation.
  • Tall grass and overgrown landscaping – Even small yards can harbor ticks.
  • Wildlife corridors – Deer, rodents, and other animals carry ticks closer to homes.

In Des Moines, ticks are often found around backyards that border green space, parks, or fields.

Health Risks Linked to Ticks

Not every tick bite transmits illness, but in Iowa, Lyme disease is the biggest concern. Other tick-borne illnesses include ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Common symptoms of tick-related illness include:

  • Fever or chills
  • Fatigue
  • Rash or skin irritation around the bite

If you suspect a tick bite has caused illness, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional right away.

Tick Prevention for Homeowners

You don’t have to stop enjoying the outdoors to reduce tick risks. Take these steps:

  • Maintain landscaping – Keep grass short, trim shrubs, and remove leaf litter.
  • Create barriers – Use gravel or mulch to separate play areas from wooded zones.
  • Protect pets – Talk to your vet about tick prevention products.
  • Check often – After spending time outdoors, check clothing, skin, and pets for ticks.

How Janssen Pest Solutions Helps

DIY prevention goes a long way, but professional treatments create an extra layer of protection. Janssen offers:

  • Exterior yard treatments to target tick hot spots
  • Seasonal service aligned with peak tick activity
  • Advice tailored to your property and family’s lifestyle

With residential pest control services and Green Guard plans, homeowners in Des Moines get the peace of mind of year-round protection.

You May Have Missed

Check out these related blog posts for more pest prevention tips and seasonal insights:

Enjoy your yard this summer without worrying about ticks. Contact Janssen Pest Solutions to schedule a consultation and learn how we can reduce tick risks around your home.

FAQs

Q: Are ticks really a problem in Des Moines?
A: Yes — while not as common as mosquitoes, ticks are present in Iowa and becoming more frequent in suburban areas.

Q: What diseases do ticks carry in Iowa?
A: Lyme disease is the most common, but ehrlichiosis and Rocky Mountain spotted fever are also reported.

Q: How can I reduce ticks in my backyard?
A: Keep grass cut short, trim shrubs, remove leaf litter, and consider professional treatments.

Q: Do ticks die off in winter?
A: Not completely — some ticks survive in leaf litter or wooded areas, which is why prevention matters year-round.

Q: Should I be worried about my pets?
A: Yes — pets are common tick carriers. Talk to your vet about prevention products and check pets after they’re outdoors.

Q: Can professional pest control get rid of ticks completely?
A: While no treatment removes 100% of ticks, professional services greatly reduce populations and risks.

Q: Do you treat public areas like trails or parks?
A: Our services focus on residential and commercial properties, but we can help protect your yard and perimeter spaces.