Are There Ticks in Missouri? A Guide to Missouri Tick Species

Blood-sucking parasites are a common concern across North America, and Missouri is no exception. Protecting yourself from ticks is crucial, not just for comfort but also to prevent transmission of various diseases these pests are known to carry. Below, you'll find essential information about the tick species prevalent in Missouri, as well as strategies to effectively repel them.

Does Missouri Have Ticks?

Ticks belong to the order of animals known as Ixodida, comprising ectoparasitic arachnids that primarily target mammals, including humans, to feed on their blood.

Missouri, with its diverse ecosystems ranging from forests and woodlands to grassy plains, is home to several tick species. While not all ticks are harmful to humans, Missouri's ticks can transmit diseases that pose serious health risks.

In Missouri, ticks are known for spreading diseases such as:

Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Ehrlichiosis
Tularemia
Heartland virus
Bourbon virus
Lyme disease
Southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI)

How Common Are Ticks in Missouri?

Ticks are widespread throughout Missouri, thriving in rural and wooded areas but also found in suburban and urban settings. Their activity peaks during warmer months, from spring through fall, when outdoor activities increase human exposure to these parasites.

Missouri's larger cities and recreational areas are not immune to ticks either, making it important for residents and visitors alike to take precautions, especially during peak tick season.

Types of Ticks in Missouri

Familiarizing yourself with the tick species found in Missouri can help in preventing tick borne illnesses. While Missouri is home to several species of ticks, the following are among the most common and noteworthy due to their ability to transmit diseases:

Lone Star Ticks

The Lone Star tick is easily identifiable by the distinctive white spot on the female's back. The most frequently encountered life stage, however, is the nymph and it does not have any similar distinctive marking. All stages of this tick are aggressive biters and are known to frequently target humans, making them a significant concern for people and pets active outdoors. They are capable of spreading diseases such as ehrlichiosis and Heartland virus, which can cause severe illness if left untreated.

American Dog Ticks

This tick species readily attaches to dogs and people. They often crawl to the crown of the head. They are characterized by their reddish-brown bodies and white ornamentation on the shields or scutum on their top side. American dog ticks are known vectors for Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia, making them a potential threat to human health.

Blacklegged Ticks (Deer Ticks)

Blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks, are responsible for transmitting Lyme disease and southern tick-associated rash illness (STARI). These ticks are relatively smaller in size than American dog ticks and lone star ticks, and in the poppy seed-sized nymph stage, they can be hard to spot and remove promptly. Despite their size, they are efficient carriers of disease and can pose a significant risk to human health if proper precautions are not taken.

When Is Tick Season in Missouri?

Tick season in Missouri generally spans from early spring through late fall. However, adult stage blacklegged ticks can be active on warm winter days as well. The highest risk of being bitten occurs during the warmer months when ticks are most active, and people spend more time outdoors.

How to Protect Yourself From Ticks in Missouri

To minimize the risk of tick bites and the diseases they can carry, consider the following precautions:

Wear light-colored clothing to easily spot ticks.
Tuck pant legs into socks and shirts into pants to create barriers to tick access.
Apply EPA-registered insect repellents containing permethrin to clothing and gear.
Avoid walking through tall grass and brush, sticking to the center of trails when hiking.
Conduct thorough tick checks on yourself, children, and pets after spending time outdoors.

Insect Shield: The Best Tick-Repellent Clothing

Insect Shield offers EPA-approved tick repellent clothing ideal for those spending time outdoors in Missouri. Our range of clothing and accessories provides an added layer of protection against ticks, helping you enjoy Missouri's beautiful landscapes with peace of mind. Shop our insect repellent collection today and stay protected against ticks!