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Deer Tick

Ixodes scapularis

Venomous / dangerousCommon

Quick answer

Can spread Lyme disease. Safety level: Venomous / dangerous.

How to identify the Deer Tick

A tiny, flat, oval arachnid with eight legs (young nymphs are about the size of a poppy seed).
Adult females have a reddish-orange body with a dark shield behind the head; males are smaller and all dark.
Swells and turns grey or brown after feeding on blood.
Size: 1–3 mm.

Where it lives

Common in eastern and central North America in woods, tall grass and leaf litter. Related ticks in Europe and Asia spread the same diseases. Ticks wait on plants and climb onto passing people and animals.

Is it dangerous?

Deer ticks can spread Lyme disease and other infections. The risk rises the longer a tick stays attached, so prompt removal matters. A spreading red rash, fever, headache or tiredness in the weeks after a bite should be checked by a doctor.

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Children and pets

Check children and pets after outdoor play.

What to do

Remove it with fine tweezers close to the skin.
See a doctor if a rash or fever appears.

Fun fact

Young deer ticks are about the size of a poppy seed.

⚠ Call emergency services straight away for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or a scorpion sting in a child. This page is general information, not medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

How do I remove a tick safely?

Grip it as close to the skin as possible with fine-tipped tweezers and pull straight up with steady pressure. Then clean the area. Avoid burning it or using oils.

Should I see a doctor after a tick bite?

See a doctor if a rash, fever, headache, joint pain or tiredness appears in the following weeks, and mention the tick bite.

How do I prevent tick bites?

Wear long trousers tucked into socks in long grass, use a recommended repellent and check yourself, children and pets after outdoor time.