News, Culture and NPR for Central & Northern Michigan
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
91.7FM Alpena and WCML-TV Channel 6 Alpena have been restored. Click here to learn more.

Deer Ticks Invade Michigan

Flickr User R. Kriatyrr Brosvik
/
https://flic.kr/p/eVa94X

If you’re planning a walk through the woods this summer, scientists warn you to check for a species of tick invading Michigan that can cause major health issues.

It’s known as the deer tick or black legged tick.. and during the summer its tiny.

 

“about the size of a sesame seed, but it can do a lot of damage”

That was Michigan State University entomology professor Ned Walker.

He says if a deer tick attaches to you for 24 hours, it can pass along Lyme disease, so check your legs after a walk in the woods.

 

 “See if you got any ticks crawling up either your legs or your trouser legs if you’re wearing shorts.”

Walker says deer ticks have invaded both peninsulas.. and they’re well established in Lansing area parks and neighborhoods. I’m Reginald Hardwick in East Lansing.

Reginald Hardwick is digital news director for WKAR Public Media, leading the creation of news reporting and commentary across all station platforms, including online, radio and television.