Ticks Are Here In Michigan – What To Watch For

Despite winter doing everything it can to overstay its welcome, today is the first official day of spring, meaning all the critters tucked away during the colder months are emerging. While hearing bird songs every morning is welcome, what is welcome is the return of those annoying bugs that won't leave you alone. 

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Bugs like flies, mosquitos, and ticks are common this time of year. Though it's early in the season, one of these stinkers is already making its presence known. Keep your eyes out for ticks.

Where Ticks Are Found

According to the Michigan DNR, ticks spend the winter on another animal before falling into the snow or dirt. When there is snow, they typically just die. However, when temps are over 40 degrees, these ticks can survive and find new hosts to live on.

AKA you or your pets.

The best way to avoid ticks is to stay away from areas where ticks are found. Ticks like shady, moist areas in wooded grassy locations, high grass, bushes, and fallen leaves. 

If you do enter an area where ticks are known to exist, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) recommends doing a full body check, including your armpits, scalp, and groin. You should also be checking your pets, for their sake and yours.

Ticks are known for carrying various diseases like Lyme Disease, so if you or a pet are bit it is important to remove the tick ASAP. For a full breakdown of information on ticks and how they can affect your health, view this pamphlet made by the MDHHS.

You can learn the 5 most common ticks in Michigan below.