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

When you think of Montana, images of towering mountains, wide-open plains, and crystal-clear rivers may come to mind. But there's another aspect of Montana's natural beauty that is less appreciated—ticks. These tiny, blood-feeding pests are more than just a nuisance; they can pose health risks to both humans and animals. If you're planning to spend time outdoors in Montana, it's essential to be aware of the ticks you might encounter.

Montana's vast and varied landscapes provide an ideal habitat for ticks. From grassy meadows to wooded areas, the state offers plenty of environments where these pests can thrive. Below, we'll explore the types of ticks commonly found in Montana and share tips on how to help protect yourself.

Does Montana Have Ticks?

Yes, Montana is home to several species of ticks. The state's diverse ecosystems, from stream corridors to sagebrush flats, make it a suitable environment for ticks.

How Common Are Ticks in Montana?

Ticks can be encountered throughout Montana, particularly during the spring and summer months. They are most frequently found in grassy meadows, wooded areas, and along stream corridors. Whether you're hiking, camping, or simply enjoying the outdoors, it's important to be aware of ticks in Montana.

When Is Tick Season in Montana?

Tick season in Montana begins in the spring and extends through the summer, typically from April to July. Ticks can also be active in milder conditions beyond spring and early summer, so it’s important to stay vigilant year-round, particularly in warmer areas.

Types of Ticks in Montana

Montana is home to a variety of tick species. Below are the most common types you may encounter:

Rocky Mountain Wood Tick

This tick is widespread in Montana, especially in the Rocky Mountain region. Rocky Mountain wood ticks commonly bite livestock, companion animals, and humans. They prefer habitats such as stream corridors, grassy meadows, and south-facing sagebrush slopes. The Rocky Mountain wood tick is not known to carry Lyme disease but can transmit Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), Colorado tick fever (CTF). and cause tick bite paralysis.

American Dog Tick

Found primarily in eastern Montana, the American dog tick is another common species. These ticks thrive in wooded areas and abandoned fields with medium-height grasses and shrubs. Like the Rocky Mountain wood tick, the American dog tick does not carry Lyme disease but can transmit RMSF and other diseases.

Other Ticks Reported in Montana

While less common, other tick species can still be found in Montana:

Brown Dog Tick

The brown dog tick, also known as the kennel tick, is less frequently found in Montana but can infest homes and kennels where dogs are housed. It is known to transmit canine diseases but is not considered a significant health threat to humans.

Winter Tick

The winter tick is found in parts of Montana, particularly in more rural areas. It typically parasitizes large mammals like deer and elk but can occasionally be found on domestic animals.

How to Protect Yourself From Ticks in Montana

Here are some practical tips to help you avoid tick bites while enjoying the outdoors in Montana:

Wear Tick-Repellent Clothing: Clothing treated with permethrin can provide excellent protection against ticks. This treatment repels ticks and reduces the risk of bites.
Regular Tick Checks: After spending time outdoors, thoroughly check your body for ticks. Pay special attention to areas like underarms, behind the knees, around the waist, and in your hair.
Tuck Your Pants Into Your Socks: This simple method helps prevent ticks from crawling up your legs. It’s an easy way to reduce the risk of bites.
Choose Light-Colored Clothing: Wearing light-colored clothing can make it easier to spot ticks before they attach to your skin.
Avoid Dense Vegetation: Ticks often inhabit dense vegetation such as tall grass and brush. Stick to well-maintained trails and avoid walking through overgrown areas.

By staying informed and taking these precautions, you can minimize your risk of encountering ticks while enjoying Montana's great outdoors. Whether you’re exploring the state's stunning landscapes or camping by a mountain stream, staying aware of ticks can help you enjoy a safe and worry-free adventure.

Tick Awareness for Hunters in Montana

Hunters should be especially vigilant during Montana's tick season, as time spent in tall grass, dense brush, or forested areas can increase the likelihood of tick encounters. Before heading out, wear permethrin-treated hunting clothing and perform thorough tick checks after hunting trips, especially if you’ve been in areas frequented by large animals, which can carry ticks.

Shop Our Collection of Tick-Repellent Clothing

Don't let ticks ruin your Montana adventure. At Insect Shield, we offer a variety of EPA-registered tick-repellent clothing designed to help keep you protected from ticks and other insects. Whether you're hiking in Glacier National Park or camping in the Gallatin National Forest, our insect-repellent gear has you covered. Shop our collection today and enjoy peace of mind during your Montana excursions!