Tick Species in North America

Ticks are a common concern for many people in North America due to their potential health risks and prevalence in various habitats. Understanding the different types of ticks in North America is essential for effective prevention and management. This guide provides an overview of the most common tick species in North America, their geographic distribution, habitats, and potential health concerns.

8 Common Tick Species in North America

American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis)

Distribution: Widely distributed across North America

Habitat: Grassy areas, trails, and wooded regions

Health Concerns: Transmits Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia

Risk: Significant health concern for humans and pets

Blacklegged Tick (Ixodes scapularis)
a.k.a Deer Tick

Distribution: Northeastern, midwestern, and southeastern United States

Habitat: Wooded areas with high humidity

Health Concerns: Primary vector for Lyme disease

Risk: Major public health concern

Lone Star Tick (Amblyomma americanum)

Distribution: Southeastern and eastern United States

Habitat: Wooded areas and grassy habitats

Health Concerns: Transmits ehrlichiosis and southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI)

Risk: Significant health concern in its range

Brown Dog Tick (Rhipicephalus sanguineus)

Distribution: Throughout the United States, particularly in warmer climates

Habitat: Close association with dogs, can infest homes

Health Concerns: Transmits Rocky Mountain spotted fever and canine ehrlichiosis

Risk: Significant concern for pet owners

Western Blacklegged Tick (Ixodes pacificus)

Distribution: Pacific coast of North America

Habitat: Wooded and brushy areas

Health Concerns: Vector for Lyme disease and anaplasmosis

Risk: Significant health risks to humans in the Pacific coast region

Gulf Coast Tick (Amblyomma maculatum)

Distribution: Coastal regions of the southern United States

Habitat: Grassy areas near the coast

Health Concerns: Transmits spotted fever rickettsiosis

Risk: Potentially severe illness for residents and visitors of coastal areas

Rocky Mountain Wood Tick (Dermacentor andersoni)

Distribution: Pacific coast of North America

Habitat: Wooded and brushy areas

Health Concerns: Vector for Lyme disease and anaplasmosis

Risk: Significant health risks to humans in the Pacific coast region

Pacific Coast Tick (Dermacentor occidentalis)

Distribution: Pacific coast of North America

Habitat: Wooded and brushy areas

Health Concerns: Vector for Lyme disease and anaplasmosis

Risk: Significant health risks to humans in the Pacific coast region

Protecting Yourself from Ticks

Understanding the geographic distribution and behavior of different tick species is crucial for implementing effective prevention strategies. Here are some key resources to help you stay safe:

Site Map

© 2023 Tick Insight