While mowing the lawn, I felt something on my ankle—*“a tiny black dot clinging to my skin.”* It wasn’t a mosquito. It was a lone star tick, known for the single white spot on the female’s back. I removed it carefully, but the experience shook me.

Ticks aren’t just annoying—they’re dangerous. *“They carry serious health risks,”* and the lone star tick is especially aggressive. Unlike other ticks that wait, this one actively hunts in grassy or wooded areas.

If you find a tick, don’t panic. *“Grab fine-tipped tweezers… pull gently and steadily.”* Clean the bite area afterward and *“don’t crush the tick,”* as that could spread disease. Save the tick in a container and note the date and location on your body. Watch for symptoms like *“rash, fever, fatigue, or muscle aches.”*

To avoid ticks, wear long clothes outdoors, use repellents with DEET or permethrin, and check yourself and pets afterward. At home, keep grass short and clear away brush. *“My husband and I are doing this exact thing next week.”*

Lone star ticks are alarming, but you can protect yourself by staying calm, acting quickly, and preventing future bites.