373
Tick Reports
Moderate
Risk Level
3+
Species Found
Tick Species in Montana
Found in Rocky Mountain states. Vector for Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Colorado tick fever.
Primary vector for Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. Found in wooded and grassy areas.
Can complete its entire lifecycle indoors. Primarily infests dogs and kennels.
Most Reported in Montana
Tick-Borne Diseases in Montana
Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Colorado tick fever
Lyme disease (Pacific coast)
Tick Season in Montana
Active Season
March – October
Peak Danger
April – June
During peak months in Montana, 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 – June.
See month-by-month tick activity guide →Tick Prevention Tips for Montana
- 1
Use EPA-registered tick repellent
Apply DEET (20–30%) to exposed skin and permethrin (0.5%) to clothing, shoes, and gear.
- 2
Wear protective clothing outdoors
Long sleeves, long pants tucked into socks, and light colors to spot ticks.
- 3
Do daily tick checks
Check your body, children, and pets after outdoor activities. Focus on the scalp, armpits, groin, and behind ears.
- 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
Maintain your yard
Keep grass short, remove leaf litter, and create a 3-foot gravel barrier between your lawn and wooded areas.
- 6
Protect your pets
Use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention year-round. Check pets daily for ticks.
Track Live Tick Activity in Montana
See the latest tick bite and sighting reports from Montana on our interactive map.