PureView's Guide on Dealing with Ticks in Central Montana - Handy for Locals and Adventure Lovers

Ticks. These sneaky little bloodsuckers are more than just a nuisance - they're a real health hazard. Central Montana is brimming with all sorts of wildlife and landscapes, which means ticks are basically everywhere. Whether you're a seasoned Montanan or an adventurous visitor, it's important to know what you're up against, how to prevent it, and the signs of tick-borne illnesses.

What Are Ticks? 

Ticks are like those annoying relatives who show up unannounced and refuse to leave. They're small arachnids (yes, they are related to spiders!) that feed on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes even reptiles and amphibians. These little parasites are notorious for transmitting a variety of diseases, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Ticks can be found waiting in areas with dense vegetation (a behavior known as "questing"), just hoping to latch onto any passing hosts. They vary in size, from nearly microscopic to several millimeters long, and can grow significantly when engorged with blood.

Understanding Ticks in Central Montana

Watch out, folks! Central Montana is home to not one, but two types of ticks - the American Dog Tick and the Rocky Mountain Wood Tick. The American Dog Tick thrives in the eastern and central parts of the state, while the Rocky Mountain Wood Tick can be found just about anywhere. Unfortunately, both of these ticks can carry diseases like Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Tularemia, which can make both humans and animals sick.

Prevention: Keeping Ticks at Bay

Prevention is key when dealing with ticks. Here are some measures you can take to protect yourself:

Repellents: Use insect repellents that contain at least 20% DEET on exposed skin and clothing for protection against ticks. Products containing permethrin can be used on clothing, shoes, camping gear, and bed nets.

Clothing: When trekking through wooded or grassy areas, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats. Tuck your pant legs into your socks for an added layer of protection.

Tick Checks: After spending time outdoors, perform a thorough tick check on yourself and any accompanying children or pets. Pay close attention to your underarms, ears, belly button, behind your knees, between your legs, around your waist, and especially in your hair.

Environment: Keep your yard tidy. Regularly mow your lawn and remove brush or leaf piles, which can serve as hotspots for ticks.

Diseases from Ticks - Signs and Symptoms in Humans

A tick bite can lead to various symptoms in humans:

Physical Signs: You may find a tick attached to your skin. Ticks can be tiny, no larger than a pinhead before they feed, and swell in size once engorged. A red spot or rash may also develop.

Illness Symptoms: If a tick-borne disease has been contracted, symptoms can include fever/chills, aches and pains, and fatigue.

Ticks and Dogs: A Quick Note

Dogs are also susceptible to ticks, and if you're a pet owner, it's important to keep an eye out for signs of ticks on your furry friend. Check them regularly after they've been outdoors, particularly around the ears, neck, underbelly, and between their toes. Veterinary-approved tick preventatives are also highly recommended.

Knowledge is power when it comes to ticks. By understanding the risk and taking appropriate preventative measures, we can ensure the health and safety of ourselves, our loved ones, and our pets.