Which ticks live in pillows? - briefly
True ticks do not inhabit pillows; the only arachnids commonly found there are dust mites (family Pyroglyphidae). These microscopic pests feed on skin flakes, not on blood, and are often mistaken for ticks.
Which ticks live in pillows? - in detail
Ticks occasionally appear in bedding, including pillowcases, when they are carried by rodents, birds, or pets that nest near the sleeping area. The most common species encountered in household pillows are:
- American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) – prefers warm, humid environments; adults attach to dogs and may be transported indoors on their fur.
- Brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus) – thrives in indoor settings; can complete its life cycle within a home, especially in areas with dogs that sleep on or near pillows.
- Deer tick (Ixodes scapularis) – primarily a forest‑dwelling parasite; larvae or nymphs may hitch a ride on humans or pets and end up in bedding during the spring and summer.
These ticks are small, ranging from 2 mm (larvae) to 5 mm (adult females). They are capable of surviving without a blood meal for several months, allowing them to remain in a pillow until a host is available.
Identification relies on visual characteristics:
- Dermacentor variabilis: reddish‑brown body with white scutum, distinctive festoons on the rear edge.
- Rhipicephalus sanguineus: dark brown to black, smooth, oval shape, no festoons.
- Ixodes scapularis: elongated, dark brown, with a flattened body and a noticeable “shield” on the dorsal surface.
Health implications include transmission of bacterial pathogens such as Rickettsia rickettsii (Rocky Mountain spotted fever) from the American dog tick, Rickettsia conorii (Mediterranean spotted fever) from the brown dog tick, and Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease) from the deer tick. Bite sites may show localized redness and swelling; systemic symptoms require medical evaluation.
Prevention measures:
- Keep sleeping areas free of rodents and stray animals.
- Wash pillowcases in hot water (≥ 60 °C) weekly.
- Vacuum mattresses and surrounding surfaces regularly.
- Use EPA‑registered acaricides on pet bedding and areas where pets rest.
- Inspect pets for ticks after outdoor exposure and remove any found promptly.
If a tick is discovered in a pillow, remove it with fine‑tipped tweezers, grasping close to the skin, and clean the area with antiseptic. Monitor for rash, fever, or flu‑like symptoms for up to four weeks and seek medical advice if they develop.