Pacific Coast Tick in the Pacific Northwest
The Pacific Coast tick is predominantly found along the western coast of the United States, spanning from Oregon to Baja California. Like its cousin, the American dog tick, the Pacific Coast tick is an ectoparasite that frequently feeds on dogs. It also attaches to a wide range of other hosts including rodents, deer, cattle, horses, and humans. This tick is a known vector for transmitting diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia to both pets and humans. Remarkably adaptable, the Pacific Coast tick can survive for several months without a host at any of its developmental stages.
Pacific Coast Tick Habitat
Pacific Coast ticks are primarily found in areas with sparse tree cover, such as grasslands, paths, and trails. In residential areas, environments with overgrown shrubs, weeds, tall grass, and debris can attract hosts like rodents and rabbits, which are preferred by nymph ticks. Adult Pacific Coast ticks position themselves on blades of grass or low vegetation, holding on with their third pair of legs. They extend their legs to latch onto a potential host when it brushes past the vegetation, thus transferring onto the animal or human.
Pacific Coast Tick Behaviors, Threats, or Dangers
The peak risk of encountering Pacific Coast Ticks, particularly adult females, is during the warmer months of spring and summer when they are most active. Both nymphs and adults of this species are capable of transmitting serious diseases, including Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever and Tularemia. To minimize the risk of bites, use an insect repellent that contains an EPA-registered active ingredient, such as DEET. Additionally, it is advisable to wear long sleeves and long pants in light colors to make it easier to spot ticks. Tucking your pants into your socks can also provide extra protection. If you are dealing with a tick problem, contact your local tick control experts for assistance.
