Today’s Tick Risk in North Dakota – Real-Time Forecast & Activity Map
Check your ZIP code for local tick activity, real-time risk levels, and prevention insights.
Built from CDC and NOAA data
Surveillance Insights
- Annual Lyme Cases
- Very low Lyme; Tularemia is the main threat
- Based on CDC surveillance data
- Long-Term Trend
- Stable populations; weather-dependent activity
- Based on CDC surveillance data
- High Risk Zones
- Billings, Cass, Grand Forks, Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Lake Metigoshe State Park, Sheyenne National Grassland
Current Situation in North Dakota
North Dakota's tick season is short but intense, driven by the American Dog tick and the Rocky Mountain Wood tick. The tick forecast for North Dakota indicates high activity in the spring and early summer, particularly in the Badlands and the Red River Valley. While Lyme disease is rare, Tularemia and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever are real concerns. The "wood tick" is a common nuisance for ranchers, hikers, and campers. In recent years, the Winter Tick has impacted the moose population significantly.
Snapshot of the current tick situation in North Dakota, based on regional surveillance data and seasonal activity patterns.
- Risk Level
- Moderate to High
- Peak Activity
- May - July
- Dominant Vector
- American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis)
Where Ticks Hide in North Dakota
The Badlands of western North Dakota, including Theodore Roosevelt National Park, are prime habitat for wood ticks, which thrive in the sagebrush and coulees. In the east, the Red River Valley's riparian forests support dense populations of American Dog ticks. Shelterbelts and windbreaks across the agricultural plains also serve as tick refuges. Lake Metigoshe State Park in the Turtle Mountains is another known hotspot.
Seasonal Activity Pattern
Tick activity is highly concentrated from late April through July. The "wood tick" season peaks in May and June. By August, hot and dry conditions usually drive ticks into dormancy. However, a wet summer can prolong the season. Hunters in early fall should still be vigilant, though risks are lower than in spring.
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Local Vector Analysis
Understanding which ticks are active in North Dakota helps you identify threats and take appropriate precautions.
American Dog Tick
Dermacentor variabilis
Appearance: Brown with white/grey mottling. Ornate white patterns on shield.
Peak Season: Spring and Summer
Habitat: Grassy fields, walkways, and trails. More tolerant of dry conditions than Deer Ticks.
Diseases: Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Tularemia
Lyme Disease
Vector: Deer tick (Ixodes scapularis)
Lyme Disease
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection transmitted by deer ticks. If caught early, it's highly treatable with antibiotics. Left untreated, it can cause serious complications affecting joints, heart, and nervous system.
Early Warning Signs
- Erythema migrans (EM) rash - appears in 70-80% of cases
- Bullseye rash (circular red rash with clear center)
- Rash appears 3-30 days after bite
- Fever and chills
Progression & Symptoms
- Severe headaches and neck stiffness
- Facial palsy (loss of muscle tone on one or both sides of face)
- Arthritis with severe joint pain, especially knees
Prevention Strategies
The best way to avoid tick-borne diseases is to prevent tick bites in the first place. These strategies work together to create multiple layers of protection.
Permethrin-Treated Clothing
Permethrin is an insecticide that kills ticks on contact. When applied to clothing, it remains effective through multiple washes.
Daily Tick Checks
Since disease transmission typically requires 24-48 hours of attachment, finding and removing ticks quickly dramatically reduces infection risk.
Landscaping Defense
Creating a tick-hostile environment in your yard reduces the chance ticks will be waiting when you step outside.
Shower Within 2 Hours
Showering after outdoor activity gives you a chance to wash off ticks before they bite.
Tick Bite Protocol
Acting quickly and correctly is your best defense against infection.Follow these 6 critical steps.
Don't Panic
Most tick bites do not transmit disease, especially if removed quickly.
- Infection rates vary by region (20-50%)
- Transmission usually takes 24-48 hours
- Stay calm and use proper technique
Gather Tools
Use fine-tipped tweezers. Avoid fingers or chemicals.
- Fine-tipped tweezers are best
- Rubbing alcohol for cleaning
- Small container to save the tick
Grasp & Pull
Grasp close to skin and pull upward with steady pressure.
- Grab mouthparts near skin (not body)
- Pull straight up—don't twist
- Maintain steady, even pressure
Clean Area
Disinfect the bite site and your hands thoroughly.
- Wash with soap and water
- Apply rubbing alcohol
- Wash hands well
Save Tick
Keep the tick in a sealed container for potential testing.
- Seal in bag or container
- Label with date and location
- Bring to doctor if symptoms appear
Monitor (30 Days)
Watch for rash or flu-like symptoms for a month.
- Check for expanding rash daily
- Watch for fever or fatigue
- Seek care if you feel unwell
When does tick season end in North Dakota?
Tick activity winds down after the first hard freeze, which in North Dakota typically arrives around Sep 22. See the local first-frost window and city-by-city freeze dates.
North Dakota first frost datesAlso worried about mosquitoes in North Dakota?
West Nile virus, EEE, and the local mosquito season vary by state. Check your North Dakota mosquito risk profile.
View North Dakota mosquito forecastStay Safe in North Dakota
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