Tick Information for Families

What ticks spread Lyme disease?

Blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis
Blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis
Western blacklegged tick, Ixodes pacificus
Western blacklegged tick, Ixodes pacificus

Blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks, spread the bacteria that causes Lyme disease in the Northeastern, mid-Atlantic and North Central states. Along the North Pacific Coast, the western blacklegged tick, spreads the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Ticks bite year-round but are most active during spring and summer (April-September.)

While adult ticks are the size of a sesame seed, immature or nymphal ticks are tiny and only the size of a poppy seed. Most humans are infected with the bacteria that causes Lyme disease through nymphal ticks, which are harder to see. 

life series scapularis
Blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis, shown on a dime.
ipacificus lifeseries
Western blacklegged tick, Ixodes pacificus, shown on a dime.

Can you spot the ticks?

This lemon poppy seed muffin has five nymphal ticks on it. Can you find them all? Hover over the image at left to reveal where they’re hidden!

Poppy seed muffin with 5 nymphal ticks on it that are the size of poppy seeds.
untitled design (16)

Can you spot the ticks?

This lemon poppy seed muffin has five nymphal ticks on it. Can you find them all? Click on the image to reveal where they’re hidden!