Protection and Education

Identify Tick Species

Martha’s Vineyard is home to several types of ticks, each with its own unique characteristics and health implications. Among the most common are the black-legged tick, also known as the deer tick, and the lone star tick. The dog tick, though less frequently a carrier of serious illnesses, can also be found in the area. Understanding these tick species is crucial for residents and visitors alike, as it empowers them to take proactive steps in preventing tick bites and associated illnesses. As part of our commitment to community well-being, we aim to educate everyone about these ticks, promoting safe outdoor experiences while preserving the natural beauty of our beloved islands.

Deer Ticks or Black-Legged Tick

Diseases Carried: Lyme DiseaseBabesiosisAnaplasmosis, Powassan Virus, Tickborne relapsing fever

Approximate Sizes (Larve, Nymph, Adult Male, Adult Female):

American Dog Ticks

Diseases Carried: TularemiaRocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Approximate Sizes (*Larve, *Nymph, Adult Male, Adult Female):

 

*Larvae and nymph stage Dog ticks rarely if ever bite humans.

Lone Star Ticks

Diseases Carried: Ehrlichiosis, Southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI), Tularemia, Bourbon virus*, Heartland Virus*; believed to cause Alpha-gal Syndrome

* Most cases of Bourbon Virus or Heartland Virus are reported from Midwestern and Southern United States

Approximate Sizes (Larve, Nymph, Adult Male, Adult Female):

Tick-Borne Illness Resources

Identify Tick Species

Types of Ticks on the Islands

Lone Star Tick

Common on the Islands

Alpha-Gal Syndrome

Learn About AGS

Public Presentations

Browse Tick Presentations

Video Resources

Informative Tick Videos

Yard Surveys

Residential Yard Surveys