Are ticks a problem in Iowa?

There have been 49 tick reports near Iowa, IA, with 1 bites and 48 sightings. The most common species reported is the Unidentified. Check the Tick Map for the latest 2026 tick activity.

What kind of ticks are in Iowa?

The most commonly reported tick species in Iowa include Unidentified, Deer Tick, Lone Star Tick. Each species carries different disease risks — see our species guide for identification help.

Tick Map

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Ticks in Iowa, IA

49 tick reports from the Iowa, IA area. 2% of reports involve bites.

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Total Reports

Sightings

Bites

Species Found in Iowa

Unidentified46 (94%)

Deer Tick2 (4%)

Risk: High — carries Lyme disease

Lone Star Tick1 (2%)

Risk: Moderate — Alpha-gal syndrome

Tick Safety in Iowa

Ticks are active in Iowa, IA and surrounding areas. The most commonly reported species is the Unidentified, making up 94% of reports.

✓Wear light-colored clothing when walking in wooded areas or tall grass
✓Use EPA-registered tick repellent (DEET, picaridin, or IR3535)
✓Do a full-body tick check after being outdoors — especially behind ears, hairline, and waistband
✓Shower within 2 hours of coming inside
✓If bitten, remove the tick with fine-tipped tweezers and monitor for symptoms for 30 days