Ticks are present in Alaska, despite its cold landscapes. While not as widely known or perceived as a threat compared to warmer regions, certain tick species have long resided in the state, and others are increasingly being identified. Alaskans should be aware of potential tick encounters and how to protect themselves.
Tick Species Present in Alaska
Alaska is home to both native and non-native tick species. Among the native ticks are the squirrel or vole tick (Ixodes angustus), often found on squirrels and hares, and various bird ticks, such as Ixodes auritulus and Ixodes howelli, which feed on avian species. Seabird ticks, like Ixodes signatus and Ixodes uriae, specialize in coastal birds. These native species have historically been less of a concern for human health.
However, the state has seen an increase in non-native tick species, often introduced through travel with pets and animals from outside Alaska. Established non-native species include the American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) and the brown dog tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus). Other non-native species identified include the Rocky Mountain wood tick, Western blacklegged tick (Ixodes pacificus), and the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis), also known as the deer tick. These introduced species are of greater concern because they are known to transmit various diseases, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The moose winter tick (Dermacentor albipictus), found in Canada, could establish in Alaska and threaten moose populations.
Where Ticks Are Found in Alaska
Ticks in Alaska inhabit a variety of environments, ranging from dense forests and woodlands to more open rural areas. Their distribution varies across the state, influenced by habitat and geography. For instance, the Western blacklegged tick is most commonly encountered in southern coastal areas. The brown dog tick can thrive indoors, often found in kennels and homes, especially in urban settings.
Rocky Mountain wood ticks prefer sparsely wooded areas, grassy trails, open fields, and shrublands. While ticks can be found throughout Alaska, higher concentrations have been noted in areas like Fairbanks, North Pole, Anchorage, Eagle River, Bethel, and Valdez. Warmer summer months increase tick activity, and a changing climate is making more Alaskan environments suitable for tick establishment. Ticks can also be present in residential yards.
Protecting Yourself from Ticks
Protecting yourself from ticks in Alaska involves practical measures, especially when spending time outdoors. Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants tucked into socks to create a physical barrier against ticks. Opting for light-colored clothing can also make it easier to spot ticks that might be crawling on you.
Insect repellents are an effective strategy. EPA-registered repellents containing active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanone can be applied to exposed skin. Permethrin-treated clothing and gear offer additional protection, as permethrin is designed to bind to fabric and repel ticks through multiple washes. Some natural repellents, such as garlic oil and compounds like nootkatone derived from Alaska yellow cedar, are also being explored for their tick-repelling properties.
After outdoor activities, conduct a thorough full-body tick check, including checking pets. Showering within two hours of coming indoors can also help wash off unattached ticks and provides a good opportunity for a detailed inspection.
If a tick is found attached, remove it promptly and carefully using fine-tipped tweezers. Grasp it as close to the skin as possible and pull straight up with steady, even pressure. Avoid twisting or jerking the tick, and do not use remedies like petroleum jelly or heat. After removal, clean the bite area, and consider submitting the tick to programs like the Alaska Submit-A-Tick Program for identification and potential pathogen testing.