Florida’s warm, humid climate creates a suitable habitat for various tick species year-round. Understanding their presence is important for residents and visitors. While ticks are active throughout the year, some species have peak seasons. Knowing about these common pests is key to effective prevention.
Common Tick Species in Florida
Florida is home to several common tick species, each with distinct characteristics and potential health implications. The Lone Star Tick is identifiable by a prominent white spot on the adult female’s back. These ticks aggressively seek human hosts and can transmit diseases such as ehrlichiosis and Southern Tick-Associated Rash Illness (STARI). Bites from the Lone Star Tick have also been linked to alpha-gal syndrome, which can cause an allergic reaction to red meat.
The Blacklegged Tick, also known as the deer tick, is another species found in Florida. These small, dark-legged ticks are recognized as primary carriers of Lyme disease, though cases in Florida are less common than in the northeastern U.S. Blacklegged ticks can also transmit babesiosis and anaplasmosis. Nymphs are active from April through August, while adults are more active from September through May.
The American Dog Tick, sometimes referred to as the wood tick, is larger than the other two and typically reddish-brown with white markings. These ticks are common in open grassy areas and along forest edges. They are known to transmit Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and tularemia. While they prefer medium-sized mammals, American Dog Ticks readily attach to humans.
Where Ticks Are Encountered in Florida
Ticks in Florida are commonly found in environments offering moisture and suitable hosts. Wooded areas, tall grasses, brush, and leaf litter provide ideal conditions. Even suburban yards can harbor ticks, especially in unmaintained areas or along property lines bordering natural spaces. Shaded areas and dense vegetation help ticks avoid desiccation, allowing them to thrive.
While ticks are present year-round due to Florida’s mild climate, their activity levels fluctuate. Peak tick season generally occurs from spring through late fall, with increased activity during warm, humid months, typically March to October. Nymph-stage ticks, which are small and harder to detect, are particularly active in spring and early summer, potentially increasing the risk of unnoticed bites. Vigilance is necessary regardless of the season.
Protecting Yourself from Ticks
Taking preventative measures can significantly reduce the risk of tick bites. When spending time outdoors where ticks are likely, wearing appropriate clothing is advisable. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants, tucked into socks, create a barrier against ticks. Light-colored clothing also makes it easier to spot ticks crawling on fabric.
Using EPA-registered insect repellents on exposed skin is an effective strategy. Repellents containing ingredients like DEET or picaridin are recommended. Clothing can also be treated with permethrin, a repellent that binds to fabric and remains effective through several washes. Staying on marked trails and avoiding dense brush or tall grass further minimizes exposure to tick habitats.
After returning indoors, perform thorough tick checks on yourself, children, and pets. Ticks often seek warm, hidden areas of the body, such as behind the ears, in the hair, under arms, and in the groin area. Showering within two hours of outdoor activity can help wash off unattached ticks.
If a tick is found attached, prompt and proper removal is important. Use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding twisting or jerking, which could leave mouthparts embedded. After removal, clean the bite area and your hands with soap and water or rubbing alcohol. If a rash, fever, or flu-like symptoms develop within several weeks of a tick bite, consult a healthcare provider.