American Dog Tick in the Pacific Northwest
American dog ticks are primarily found in eastern regions of the Rocky Mountains, extending into select western states such as California, Idaho, and Washington. Predominantly found on dogs, these ticks also attach to a wide range of larger hosts, including mice, deer, cattle, horses, and humans. Both pets and humans are at risk of contracting diseases like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Tularemia from these ticks, which can survive up to two years without a host.
American Dog Tick Habitat
American dog ticks thrive in environments with minimal tree cover, such as open grassy fields and scrublands, and are also commonly found along paths and trails. Overgrown residential areas with dense shrubs, weeds, tall grass, and debris provide suitable habitats for hosts – where nymph ticks wait to feed. Adult ticks typically perch on grass blades or low vegetation, using their back legs to latch onto potential hosts that brush past.
American Dog Tick Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
The risk of tick bites peaks during the warmer seasons, particularly in spring and summer, with adult female ticks posing the greatest threat to humans. Both nymphs and adults have the potential to transmit diseases like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Tularemia. To minimize the risk of tick bites, use insect repellents containing EPA-registered ingredients such as DEET, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants in light colors to easily spot ticks, and ensure pants are tucked into socks for added protection. If you are dealing with a tick problem, contact your local tick control experts for assistance.
