ST. JOSEPH, MO (News-Press NOW) — Tick season has been in full force for the past few weeks, and experts warn that the risk will remain high through the summer.
In Northwest Missouri, tick activity typically peaks from April through September, coinciding with the height of outdoor recreation.
With more people hiking, camping, and enjoying nature, the chances of encountering a tick rise significantly.
Ticks are small, blood-sucking parasites that belong to the same family as spiders and mites. While tiny, they can carry serious illnesses such as Lyme disease.
There are three common types of ticks in Missouri:
* The lone star tick is the most aggressive and can be identified by the white dot on the back of adult females.
* The American dog tick is larger and brown with white or gray markings.
* The deer tick, also known as the Blacklegged tick, is smaller and darker, with female ticks sometimes showing a reddish-orange shield on their back.
Ticks are most commonly found in wooded areas, tall grass and brushy fields. Contrary to popular belief, ticks don’t jump or fly. Instead, they perch on the edges of grass and leaves, waiting to latch onto a passing animal or person.
Once attached, they crawl to a warm, moist area of the body and begin feeding.
The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recommends wearing long sleeves, pants tucked into socks, and using insect repellent.
Once back indoors, a full-body tick check is essential. Showering within two hours can also help dislodge ticks before they attach.
“The biggest safety thing really is just a full, thorough tick check,” said Erin Woodiel, media specialist with the MDC. “Checking all your nooks, crannies, and creases is key to making sure no ticks are burrowed into your skin.”
Pet safety is also important. Woodiel recommends keeping pets on a leash and away from tall vegetation. Once back home, carefully inspect pets—especially around the ears, under the collar, and between their toes.
Even with all precautions, ticks can still attach. That’s why doing a final, careful check after outdoor activities is your best line of defense.
If you find a tick, remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers, clean the area with soap and water, and monitor for symptoms like rash, fever, or fatigue in the days that follow.
For more information on ticks and how to stay safe outdoors, visit the Missouri Department of Conservation at: https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/ticks