so after I take a tick off of something I usually put it in a container like a ziplock or jar. they usually die within a few days from lack of air.
I took a tick off of my brother's leg at least 2 weeks ago and it is still alive. in a ziplock bag. he says he has not let any air into the bag.
how can this be?
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
I have a friend who said it took 10 days for a tick to die in the ziploc. I bet they can live a LONG time in either one.
Posted by LisaK (Member # 41384) on :
I guess it depends how tight a seal. I buy name brand- maybe my brother buys dollar store bags? haha (not as airtight)
Posted by Mashieniblick (Member # 50588) on :
It really depends on moisture. If there is moisture in the ziplock bag, they can live for weeks. I have done this. small piece of wet paper towel keeps them alive for a long time.
The relative humidity on the day you shut that ziplock bag would probably be a major factor.
Posted by LisaK (Member # 41384) on :
thanks Mash! that seems to make sense
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- Do not keep a tick in a plastic bag. They've been know to chew their way right through.
If you are planning to test it, call and ask if it can be frozen in a small jar or bottle.
If not for testing, burn it but take care not to touch it directly at any time before or after the tiny inferno. -
Posted by Lyme248 (Member # 51011) on :
Is it okay to flush a tick down the toilet? I heard somewhere that they can live in septic systems, but I think that sounds a little crazy.
This is my rule of thumb: if you can squish it, it not a tick. But if you have to kill it with a knife- definitely not an ordinary bug.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
I personally don't trust flushing them anymore.
I have unfortunately "squished" and flushed far too many in my day. (back before anyone knew what Lyme was)
Posted by Keebler (Member # 12673) on :
- Even over 50 years ago, as a kid, were were told to burn them in an ash tray (yeah, I know - now it would be just a small non-flammable surface) and be sure the head was destroyed.
Unless they are to be sent for testing, no other method is as final, IMO. -
Posted by DizzyDT (Member # 51561) on :
I was told by my LLMD that burning them would cause their poison to circulate and you could get Lyme disease from the air. If you flush them they can live 19 years without air. The only way to kill them is to remove them with tweezers and place them in a small container with rubbing alcohol. It kills them instantly.
Posted by Lymetoo (Member # 743) on :
So disgusting!
(thanks for the info!)
Posted by LisaK (Member # 41384) on :