Are ticks a problem in Santa Cruz?

There have been 29 tick reports near Santa Cruz, CA, with 0 bites and 29 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 Santa Cruz?

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

Tick Map

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Ticks in Santa Cruz, CA

29 tick reports from the Santa Cruz, CA area.

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Total Reports

Sightings

Bites

Species Found in Santa Cruz

Unidentified28 (97%)

Deer Tick1 (3%)

Risk: High — carries Lyme disease

Tick Safety in Santa Cruz

Ticks are active in Santa Cruz, CA and surrounding areas. The most commonly reported species is the Unidentified, making up 97% 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