“Tick season” in Michigan refers to the period when ticks are most active and pose a greater risk of biting people and pets. Ticks are present for a significant portion of the year in Michigan, making awareness a year-round consideration.
Annual Tick Activity in Michigan
Tick activity in Michigan extends across much of the year, peaking during warmer months. Ticks become active whenever temperatures rise above 40 degrees Fahrenheit, even during mild winter days. The general “tick season” typically runs from early spring through late fall, from April to September.
Different life stages of ticks exhibit varying activity patterns. Nymph blacklegged ticks are most active from late spring through summer, generally from May to July. Adult blacklegged ticks are commonly encountered in both spring and fall. American dog ticks are active from early May to November.
Factors Influencing Tick Presence
Temperature plays a significant role, with ticks becoming active when temperatures are consistently above freezing. Humidity is another important factor, as ticks require moisture.
Ticks prefer specific habitats, including wooded areas, tall grasses, brushy environments, and leaf litter. Climate changes have allowed tick populations to expand their range and numbers within Michigan, increasing the duration of their active season.
Common Tick Species and Associated Risks
Michigan is home to over 20 different tick species, but a few are particularly common and medically significant. The blacklegged tick, also known as the deer tick (Ixodes scapularis), is a concern due to its ability to transmit Lyme disease. This tick has a reddish abdomen and black legs, with a black shield behind its head. Beyond Lyme disease, which can cause symptoms like a bull’s-eye rash, fever, and fatigue, the blacklegged tick can also transmit anaplasmosis, babesiosis, and Powassan virus. Its range has expanded across nearly every county in Michigan.
The American dog tick (Dermacentor variabilis) is widely distributed throughout Michigan and is the most common tick found in the state. It is characterized by its pale brown or reddish-brown body with white patterns on its back. While less likely to transmit serious diseases in Michigan, it can carry the bacteria responsible for Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and tularemia.
Another species, the Lone Star tick (Amblyomma americanum), is becoming more prevalent in Michigan, particularly in the southwestern region. Females of this reddish-brown tick have a distinct white spot on their back. While not known to transmit Lyme disease, Lone Star tick bites can lead to ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, tularemia, and Alpha-Gal Syndrome, a delayed allergic reaction to red meat.
Minimizing Tick Encounters
Reducing tick encounters involves personal protective measures and habitat modification. Wearing appropriate clothing can help when spending time outdoors. Long pants tucked into socks, long-sleeved shirts, and closed-toe shoes create physical barriers. Light-colored clothing also makes it easier to spot ticks.
Using EPA-registered insect repellents containing active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin offers protection. Treating clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin can kill ticks on contact, but permethrin should not be applied directly to skin. Staying in the center of trails and avoiding overgrown vegetation also reduces direct contact with ticks.
After returning indoors, perform thorough tick checks. Inspect all body surfaces, including:
Scalp
Ears
Armpits
Belly button
Waist
Behind the knees
Groin
Pets should also be checked, as they can carry ticks indoors. Showering within two hours of outdoor activity can wash away unattached ticks. Placing clothes in a dryer on high heat for at least 10 minutes can kill any ticks that remain on fabric. Remove attached ticks promptly using fine-tipped tweezers by grasping close to the skin and pulling upward with steady, even pressure, then cleaning the bite area.