University of Maine Highlights Rising Tick Threat Amid Climate Change Trends

Deer tick activity has surged in Maine as warmer weather heralds the beginning of their active season, typically kicking off in mid- to late-March. With ticks emerging from their winter dormancy, the University of Maine's tick lab has already seen an uptick in submissions, signaling the return of a pest whose presence carries serious health implications. These tiny arachnids, known to transmit Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis, are active earlier than usual this year, a phenomenon experts attribute to shifting climate patterns and milder winters.

Maine Grapples with Rising Tick Populations Amid Climate Shifts

The resurgence of deer ticks, which have overwintered under snow-packed insulation, is not merely a seasonal nuisance but a growing public health concern. Maine's record-breaking 3,218 Lyme disease cases in 2024 paint a stark picture of the toll these ticks can exact. Already, 291 cases have been reported in 2025, though the bulk of infections typically occur later in the warmer months when tick activity peaks. As adult deer ticks begin their annual quest for hosts, dog ticks—another species known for its own set of risks—are expected to join the fray in about six weeks.

The interplay between climate change and tick proliferation is becoming increasingly evident. Warmer winters, coupled with the insulating properties of snow cover, have enhanced tick survival rates, allowing populations to thrive and expand their range. This environmental shift is not unique to Maine; across the northeastern United States, ticks are pushing into territories previously deemed inhospitable. Experts warn that as winters grow shorter and less severe, tick activity will likely begin earlier and persist longer, amplifying the risks of tick-borne illnesses.

For Maine residents, the implications are multifaceted. Lyme disease remains the most notorious of tick-borne illnesses, often presenting with flu-like symptoms and a characteristic bullseye rash. However, anaplasmosis and babesiosis, both of which can lead to severe complications, are also on the rise. The state's growing case numbers serve as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance, particularly as outdoor activities become more frequent with the arrival of spring.

Preventative measures are critical in reducing the risk of tick bites and subsequent infections. Experts recommend using EPA-approved insect repellents, wearing long sleeves and pants while outdoors, and conducting thorough tick checks after spending time in wooded or grassy areas. Even suburban yards are not immune to tick activity, underscoring the importance of daily precautions. The University of Maine tick lab also encourages residents to submit ticks for identification and testing, a service that helps track tick populations and disease prevalence across the state.

Yet, the burden of prevention cannot rest solely on individuals. Public health initiatives aimed at raising awareness and promoting safe practices are vital in combating the surge in tick-borne illnesses. Local governments and environmental agencies must also grapple with the broader implications of climate change, which continues to alter ecosystems in ways that favor tick survival. For Maine, where outdoor recreation is deeply woven into the fabric of daily life, balancing the joys of nature with the risks posed by its smallest inhabitants is an increasingly urgent challenge.

Reflecting on the broader picture, the rise in tick activity serves as a microcosm of the larger environmental shifts reshaping our world. The connection between climate change and public health is becoming harder to ignore, as warming temperatures not only extend tick seasons but also facilitate the spread of other pests and diseases. Maine's experience is a cautionary tale for regions that have yet to see the full impact of these changes. It underscores the need for proactive measures, both to mitigate climate change and to adapt to its consequences.

As the season progresses, residents of Maine—and indeed, those across the northeastern United States—will need to remain vigilant. The arrival of warmer weather brings with it the promise of renewal, but also the return of challenges that demand both individual responsibility and collective action. In the end, the battle against ticks is not merely a fight against a pest; it is a test of our ability to adapt to a world in flux.