Ticks Aren’t Just Seasonal: Where They’re Active Year-Round
Many people believe ticks are only a concern in spring and summer. However, experts say that in many parts of the United States, ticks are active year-round or nearly year-round. According to reporting from AP News, ticks can remain active outside of the traditional tick season whenever temperatures are mild enough — including during winter months.
Relying on the calendar instead of year-round prevention can increase the risk of tick exposure.
Can Ticks Be Active All Year?
Yes. Ticks become active whenever temperatures rise above freezing — even during winter. While tick exposure is highest in warmer months, ticks can bite at any time of year if conditions allow.
In warmer southern states, freezing temperatures may never last long enough to stop tick activity altogether. In colder regions, short winter warm spells can cause ticks to emerge well outside of the traditional “tick season.”
Key takeaway: In many states, there is no true off-season for ticks.
States Where Ticks Are Active Nearly Year-Round
Tick activity varies by region, but ticks are widely distributed across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), maps showing the geographic distribution of major tick species reveal that disease-carrying ticks are present across much of the country — particularly throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, South, Midwest, and parts of the West.
While tick activity peaks during warmer months, the CDC notes that adult ticks may be actively searching for hosts any time winter temperatures rise above freezing. This means that in states with milder winters — and even in colder states during winter warm spells — ticks can remain active well beyond the traditional spring-through-fall tick season, creating the potential for exposure during much of the year.
Why Year-Round Tick Activity Is Increasing
Researchers point to several factors driving extended tick activity, including:
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Milder winters that allow ticks to survive longer
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Growing deer and rodent populations that serve as key tick hosts
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Changes in land use that increase contact between ticks, people, and pets
Together, these factors are contributing to longer tick seasons and ongoing year-round risk.
Common Year-Round Tick Questions (Q&A)
Are ticks only a problem in warm months?
No. Ticks can be active any time temperatures are above freezing.
Can ticks survive winter in warmer climates?
Yes. In many southern states, ticks may remain active year-round without entering dormancy.
Are Lyme disease ticks active in winter?
Yes. Adult blacklegged ticks are often active during fall, winter thaws, and early spring.
Where are ticks commonly found year-round?
Ticks are typically found near the ground in wooded areas, leaf litter, tall grass, brush, and along trail edges — places people and pets frequent throughout the year.
Why Year-Round Tick Prevention Matters
Ticks can transmit serious illnesses, including:
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Lyme disease
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Rocky Mountain spotted fever
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Ehrlichiosis
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Alpha-gal syndrome, a potentially life-threatening red meat allergy
Because ticks don’t follow a strict seasonal schedule, prevention should remain consistent year-round.
Wrapping Up
Ticks are not just a seasonal problem. In many states, tick activity occurs year-round or nearly year-round, making consistent prevention essential. Staying informed and maintaining year-round tick-prevention habits can help protect you, your family, and your pets in every season.
