About Ticks in South Africa
South Africa has over 90 tick species, several of which are medically and veterinarily significant. The most commonly encountered species affecting humans and pets include the Yellow Dog Tick (Haemaphysalis elliptica), the Bont-legged Tick (Hyalomma spp.), the Brown Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus), and the Red-legged Tick (Rhipicephalus evertsi). South African Tick Bite Fever (caused by Rickettsia africae) is a very real and serious illness affecting thousands of South Africans annually — particularly in bushveld and rural areas.
Ticks are not insects — they are arachnids closely related to spiders and mites. They require a blood meal at each life stage (larva, nymph, adult) and can transmit diseases during feeding. They are found in long grass, bush, and garden vegetation, attaching to passing animals and humans.
🇿🇦 South African Facts
- African Tick Bite Fever affects thousands of South Africans annually — most cases occur in the bushveld regions.
- Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF), transmitted by Hyalomma ticks, has a case fatality rate of 10–40%.
- The Brown Dog Tick is the primary vector of Ehrlichia canis — a devastating disease killing SA dogs annually.
- East Coast Fever, transmitted by the Brown Ear Tick, causes significant livestock losses in South Africa.
- Paralysis tick toxin from certain SA species can cause acute ascending paralysis in dogs and children.
Warning Signs of a Ticks Infestation
Spotting a ticks infestation early can save you time and money. Watch for these tell-tale signs:
Ticks found on pets — embedded in the skin, especially around ears, between toes, and on the belly.
Ticks found on yourself or family members after outdoor activity in grass or bushveld.
Pets showing signs of tick-related illness: lethargy, pale gums, high fever, or loss of appetite.
Visible ticks on garden vegetation or grass in endemic areas.
Dogs scratching and biting at specific areas where ticks attach.
Health & Property Risks
Tick Bite Fever (Rickettsia africae) — causes fever, severe headache, and characteristic black eschar at the bite site.
Canine Biliary (Babesiosis) — transmitted by Yellow Dog Ticks, can be fatal to dogs within 24–48 hours if untreated.
Crimean-Congo Haemorrhagic Fever — a severe, life-threatening viral disease.
Tick paralysis — caused by toxin in tick saliva, causing progressive paralysis in dogs and occasionally children.
East Coast Fever and Heartwater — significant livestock diseases in farming areas.
Our Ticks Treatment Approach
At Eco-Fumigation, we follow a proven, multi-step process to fully eliminate ticks and prevent their return.
Garden & Perimeter Treatment
Acaricide (tick-specific pesticide) sprayed to garden vegetation, grass, fence lines, and kennel areas to eliminate ticks in the environment.
Spot Treatment of Harborage Zones
Targeted treatment of tall grass, leaf litter, and shaded damp areas where ticks concentrate.
Pet Area Treatment
Kennels, dog runs, and outdoor pet resting areas treated with appropriate acaricides.
Advice on Pet Tick Control
Guidance on veterinarian-recommended tick collars, spot-on treatments, and dips for your specific pet species.
Prevention Tips — Keep Ticks Away
Our technicians don't just eliminate the current infestation — they help you prevent future ones with these proven tips: