Ticks in North Dakota: Complete 2026 Guide

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

2636

Tick Reports

High

Risk Level

3+

Species Found

Tick Species in North Dakota

Deer Tick

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

American Dog Tick

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

Lone Star Tick

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

Most Reported in North Dakota

Unidentified
19%
Deer Tick
0%
Lone Star Tick
0%

Tick-Borne Diseases in North Dakota

Anaplasmosis

Ehrlichiosis

Rocky Mountain spotted fever

Tick Season in North Dakota

Active Season

April – October

Peak Danger

May – July

During peak months in North Dakota, 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 North Dakota

  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 North Dakota

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

Tick RemovalLyme DiseaseTick Bite SymptomsTick PreventionTick SeasonTicks on DogsAll Tick Species