When Is Tick Season?
Tick season in the United States generally runs from April through September, with the highest risk in May, June, and July. However, the exact timing varies by region, species, and weather conditions.
In southern states, ticks can be active nearly year-round. In northern states, adult deer ticks remain active on mild winter days above 35°F. Climate change is also expanding tick season and range in many areas.
Month-by-Month Tick Activity
January
Adult deer ticks active on mild days (above 35°F). Other species dormant.
February
Minimal activity. Adult deer ticks may emerge during warm spells.
March
Activity increases as ground thaws. Lone star and dog ticks begin emerging in southern states.
April
Tick season begins across most of the US. Nymph-stage deer ticks start emerging. Begin daily tick checks.
May
Peak nymph activity begins. Highest risk for Lyme disease transmission. All species active.
June
Peak tick season. Nymph deer ticks at maximum activity. Most tick-borne disease cases originate from June bites.
July
Continued peak activity. Lone star ticks very aggressive. Hot, dry spells may reduce activity slightly.
August
Nymph activity declining. Adult lone star and dog ticks still active. Heat may drive ticks to shaded areas.
September
Adult deer ticks begin their fall feeding cycle. Continued risk through first hard frost.
October
Adult deer ticks actively seeking hosts. Peak mating season for deer ticks. Don't let your guard down.
November
Activity decreasing with cold weather. Adult deer ticks still active until sustained freeze.
December
Most species dormant. Adult deer ticks can still be active on warm days above freezing.
Tick Season by Region
Northeast & Mid-Atlantic
CT, DE, MA, MD, ME, NH, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT, VA
Highest Lyme disease risk. Adult deer ticks active in fall/winter on mild days.
Upper Midwest
MN, WI, MI, IA, IL, IN, OH
Significant Lyme disease risk. Deer ticks and dog ticks common.
Southeast
AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN
Lone star ticks dominant. Alpha-gal syndrome risk. Ticks active in mild winters.
South Central
TX, OK, MO, KS
Lone star ticks and dog ticks common. Rocky Mountain spotted fever risk.
West
CA, OR, WA, CO, AZ, NM, UT, NV, MT, WY, ID
Rocky Mountain wood tick in mountains. Western black-legged tick in coastal areas. Generally lower overall risk.
When Each Tick Species Is Most Active
Two active periods — nymphs in summer, adults in fall/winter
Most common tick found on people in many states
Only tick that can complete its lifecycle indoors
Expanding northward. Found along Gulf Coast and Atlantic seaboard.
Get Tick Alerts for Your Area
Free weekly digest of tick activity near you. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.