Ticks and Mice - Can’t Have One Without the Other

Ticks, particularly the black-legged tick or deer tick, have a fascinating life cycle deeply intertwined with the transmission of Lyme disease. Starting with thousands of eggs laid by a female tick in May, tiny larvae hatch in late summer and seek out their first blood meal, often finding it on white-footed mice, which can carry Lyme-causing bacteria. Once infected, the tick retains the bacteria for life, capable of transmitting it to other hosts. After feeding, the larvae molt into nymphs and lie dormant through winter, becoming active in spring and summer to seek their second blood meal, often from mice, deer, or humans. Nymphs are the primary transmitters of Lyme disease due to their small size and activity during peak human outdoor exposure.

The white-footed mouse's role is crucial in the tick lifecycle, as they serve as primary carriers of Lyme bacteria. A bountiful acorn season leads to increased mouse populations, subsequently boosting tick numbers and human Lyme disease infections. 

Natural predators like owls and hawks help control mouse populations without contracting Lyme disease themselves, making it imperative not to poison these predators. Tick saliva plays a significant role in their ability to remain attached to hosts for days, containing a special cement and chemicals that suppress pain and itchiness, allowing ticks to feed unnoticed.

Understanding the lifecycle and behavior of ticks is essential for Lyme disease prevention. Checking for and promptly removing ticks after outdoor activities can significantly reduce the risk of infection. Moreover, controlling white-footed mouse populations, preserving natural predators, and studying tick saliva for potential medical applications are vital strategies in mitigating the spread of Lyme disease.