Ticks are tiny, spider-like parasites found in grassy and wooded areas worldwide. They grow through three active stages: larvae (nearly invisible), nymphs (size of a poppy seed), and adults. Before feeding, they are flat and dark, but once they attach and feed on blood, they swell significantly. A fully fed tick often looks like a smooth, grey or tan "bean" nestled in the skin or fur.

Ticks prefer moist, shaded areas with dense vegetation. They are most commonly found in woodlands, moorlands, and long grass, but they can also live in urban parks and domestic gardens.

No, ticks cannot jump or fly. They use a technique called "questing" - they climb to the top of a blade of grass and wait with their front legs outstretched. When a person or pet brushes past, they simply hitch a ride and climb upward.

While most tick bites are harmless, some ticks carry bacteria that cause diseases, most notably Lyme disease. Prompt removal is essential; research on European tick strains shows that transmission can begin in as little as 12 hours for nymph ticks, so the sooner the tick is removed, the better. This is why regular "tick checks" are a must. Tick Twister® is the safest way to remove ticks through its twisting action, as this does not leave the tick's head in the skin.

Ticks are active year-round if the temperature is above 6 degrees Celsius, but they are most active between March and October. Activity typically peaks in late spring and early summer when humidity is higher.

The most common early sign is a circular, spreading rash that looks like a "bullseye." Other symptoms include flu-like aches, fatigue, fever, and joint pain. If you notice these after a bite, you should consult a GP immediately.

After walks, run your hands over your pet's body feeling for small bumps. Pay close attention to "hidden" areas: inside the ears, between the toes, under the armpits, around the groin, under the collar, and around the eyelids and base of the tail - anywhere the skin is thin, warm, and protected.

Never pull, squeeze, or burn a tick. Use a specialized tool like the Tick Twister® to hook the tick and use a gentle twisting motion. This removes the tick in one piece and stops it from passing germs into the bloodstream. Our Tick Twister® range includes 3 different tick removers which can safely tackle ticks at any growth stage - from the tiniest larvae to largest adults.

If you don’t have any other tools to hand, tweezers can be used - but they should only be a last resort. Tweezers can easily squeeze the tick, which increases the risk of it injecting bacteria into the bloodstream or leaving the mouthparts behind in the skin.

For the safest removal, experts recommend using a special tick tool with a "twist, don’t pull" action. Tools like the Tick Twister® are designed to hold the tick without squeezing it. This allows you to simply rotate the tick out, which is much safer and reduces the risk of infection.

Ticks shouldn't stop you from enjoying the outdoors. You can explore our beautiful woodlands, parks, and trails safely by staying on cleared paths and wearing light-coloured clothing to spot them easily. Simply include a quick "tick check" for the whole family and your pets when you get home to ensure peace of mind. Keeping a Tick Twister® in your pocket or rucksack when out and about ensures you are prepared to handle ticks safely and effectively, wherever you are.