Ticks in Kansas: Complete 2026 Guide

Which tick species live in Kansas, what diseases they carry, when they're most active, and how to stay protected.

778

Tick Reports

Moderate–High

Risk Level

3+

Species Found

Tick Species in Kansas

Lone Star Tick

Very aggressive biter. Can cause Alpha-gal syndrome (red meat allergy) and ehrlichiosis.

American Dog Tick

Common on dogs and humans. Primary vector for Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Brown Dog Tick

Can complete its entire lifecycle indoors. Primarily infests dogs and kennels.

Most Reported in Kansas

Unidentified
64%
Deer Tick
0%

Tick-Borne Diseases in Kansas

Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Ehrlichiosis

STARI

Alpha-gal syndrome

Tick Season in Kansas

Active Season

March – November

Peak Danger

April – July

During peak months in Kansas, nymph-stage ticks (the size of a poppy seed) are actively feeding. These tiny ticks are responsible for most disease transmission because they're difficult to spot. Always do thorough tick checks after spending time outdoors, especially during April – July.

See month-by-month tick activity guide →

Tick Prevention Tips for Kansas

  1. 1

    Use EPA-registered tick repellent

    Apply DEET (20–30%) to exposed skin and permethrin (0.5%) to clothing, shoes, and gear.

  2. 2

    Wear protective clothing outdoors

    Long sleeves, long pants tucked into socks, and light colors to spot ticks.

  3. 3

    Do daily tick checks

    Check your body, children, and pets after outdoor activities. Focus on the scalp, armpits, groin, and behind ears.

  4. 4

    Shower within 2 hours

    Showering after coming inside can wash off unattached ticks and is a good time to do a tick check.

  5. 5

    Maintain your yard

    Keep grass short, remove leaf litter, and create a 3-foot gravel barrier between your lawn and wooded areas.

  6. 6

    Protect your pets

    Use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention year-round. Check pets daily for ticks.

Track Live Tick Activity in Kansas

See the latest tick bite and sighting reports from Kansas on our interactive map.

Tick RemovalLyme DiseaseTick Bite SymptomsTick PreventionTick SeasonTicks on DogsAll Tick Species