A tick that is in the nymph stage of development may be called a seed tick.
Although some smaller types of ticks are called seed ticks, the term generally refers to the stage of development of a tick before it becomes an adult. A tick has several stages of development: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. Those in the nymph stage may also be called seed ticks, as many people say these little arachnids often look like seeds. In this form, they are very small, usually the size of a pinhead or smaller.
Packing tape can be used to remove ticks from seeds.
The danger of ticks at this stage is usually in their number. Where there is one, there are usually hundreds, if not thousands, of others. Since seed ticks tend to congregate in the same area, they tend to find the same hosts, so someone who notices one nymph may find many more.
While all ticks can carry disease, seed ticks, being a bit younger, may not carry as many harmful viruses. However, this should not be misconstrued as a reason not to take them seriously. All ticks have the ability to transmit diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
If a pet has ticks, it is important to treat the animal and the areas of the house where the pet has had access.
Most of these immature ticks do not have the ability to attach firmly to a host, so removing them is often easier than adults. In some cases, this can be done by simply placing tape over the affected area and lifting it up, as ticks often attach to tape. For animals, the use of a medication intended to kill ticks usually works very well.
Seed ticks can cause red, itchy bumps on the skin where they bite.
Pet owners who discover they have a tick-affected pet should treat the animal and the entire house, or at least the areas where the animal has access, with some type of insecticide. These young ticks are numerous and cannot always remain on the host, so they can easily wander around the house in areas where the pet has already been. Without treatment, a homeowner may find themselves continually having problems with the little bugs.
Garlic can be used to prevent tick bites.
As with any insect bite, seed tick bites should be closely monitored for infection. Ticks can cause red, itchy bumps on the skin where they bite. If these do not go away after a few days, or if the bitten person develops an illness soon after, you should seek medical treatment.