Spring has arrived in Minnesota, bringing with it the promise of warmer weather and outdoor activities for families and pets. However, as more people venture outside, they need to be aware of the presence of ticks in the area.
Tick season in Minnesota began as early as February this year, with the Metropolitan Mosquito Control District reporting a deer tick found in Dakota County on February 5. According to Alex Carlson, a spokesperson for the MMCD, this discovery marked the earliest instance of tick activity in recent memory.
In Minnesota, there are several types of ticks that residents should be on the lookout for, including the blacklegged tick (also known as the deer tick), the dog tick (or wood tick), and the lone-star tick. These ticks vary in size, with some being as small as a poppy seed and others as large as a pencil eraser.
Experts are warning of a potential tick explosion in Minnesota this year, attributed to the mild winter the state experienced. Typically, ticks die off during the winter months due to cold temperatures, but the lack of significant cold weather this year likely allowed more of them to survive.
To prevent tick-related issues, pet owners are advised to start tick prevention medication early and remain vigilant throughout the season. With the expectation of increased tick activity, taking proactive measures can help protect pets and reduce the risk of tick-borne illnesses.