Ticks are a concern for anyone spending time outdoors in Pennsylvania, a state consistently reporting high numbers of tick-borne illnesses. Understanding their periods of heightened activity allows individuals to take informed steps to reduce their risk of exposure.
Year-Round Tick Presence in Pennsylvania
The idea of a defined “tick season” can be misleading, as ticks can be present and active throughout the entire year in Pennsylvania. While certain periods show higher activity, ticks do not disappear entirely, even during colder months. If temperatures rise above 45 degrees Fahrenheit, ticks can emerge from dormancy, and mild winters contribute to their extended activity. This continuous presence means vigilance is necessary year-round, as warmer days in winter can prompt activity and lead to more encounters earlier in the year.
Key Tick Species and Their Activity Peaks
Pennsylvania is home to several medically significant tick species, each with distinct activity patterns and associated diseases.
Blacklegged Tick (Deer Tick)
Found across all 67 counties, the blacklegged tick is a primary vector for Lyme disease, a bacterial infection. Nymphs, about the size of a poppy seed, are most active during spring and early summer, typically peaking in June and July. Adults are active during fall and winter. This species can also transmit Anaplasmosis, a bacterial infection, and Babesiosis.
American Dog Tick
Commonly encountered, the American dog tick is identifiable by its mahogany brown body. Adults are most active from spring through summer. This species transmits Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, a bacterial disease, and Tularemia.
Lone Star Tick
Characterized by a white dot on the back of adult females, the lone star tick is expanding its range northward. Nymphs are active from May through early August, while adults are active from April through June. This aggressive biting tick can transmit Ehrlichiosis, a bacterial infection, and has been linked to Alpha-gal syndrome, a condition that can cause an allergic reaction to red meat.
Environmental Influences on Tick Season
Environmental conditions, particularly temperature and humidity, significantly influence tick activity and population levels. Ticks require moisture to survive and are more active in humid environments. Mild and wet conditions can lead to earlier and prolonged periods of tick activity.
Conversely, extremely hot and dry summer conditions can sometimes suppress tick activity, as ticks are susceptible to desiccation. Shifts in seasonal activity, potentially influenced by changing climate patterns, are causing ticks to become active earlier in the year and remain so for longer durations. This variability means that the intensity and duration of tick activity can differ from year to year, influenced by regional weather patterns.
Personal Protection Strategies
Protecting oneself from ticks involves a multi-faceted approach when spending time outdoors. Wearing appropriate clothing is a key step; long pants and sleeves create a barrier, and light-colored clothing makes it easier to spot ticks. Tucking pants into socks also helps prevent ticks from crawling up legs.
Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Treating clothing and gear with permethrin, a chemical that kills ticks on contact, offers additional protection. After outdoor activities, perform thorough tick checks on yourself, children, and pets, focusing on areas like the hairline, behind the ears, armpits, and groin. Taking a shower soon after coming indoors can help wash off unattached ticks. Maintaining yards by keeping grass mowed and clearing leaf litter can also reduce tick habitats around homes.