Ticks in New Jersey: Complete 2026 Guide

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

269

Tick Reports

Very High

Risk Level

3+

Species Found

Tick Species in New Jersey

Deer Tick

Primary vector for Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. Found in wooded and grassy areas.

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.

Most Reported in New Jersey

Unidentified
92%
Deer Tick
8%

Tick-Borne Diseases in New Jersey

Anaplasmosis

Babesiosis

Powassan virus

Tick Season in New Jersey

Active Season

April – November

Peak Danger

May – July

During peak months in New Jersey, 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 May – July.

See month-by-month tick activity guide →

Tick Prevention Tips for New Jersey

  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 New Jersey

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

Tick RemovalLyme DiseaseTick Bite SymptomsTick PreventionTick SeasonTicks on DogsAll Tick Species