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 Disease, Babesiosis, Anaplasmosis, Powassan Virus, Tickborne relapsing fever
Approximate Sizes (Larve, Nymph, Adult Male, Adult Female):

American Dog Ticks
Diseases Carried: Tularemia, Rocky 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