Deer Ticks Expanding their Range

Deer ticks are expanding their range. Entomologist Dave Neitzel, of the Minnesota Department of Health, says they are spreading from the Brainerd Lakes Area into Hubbard, Clearwater and Becker Counties. He tells KLKS News, warmer winters could allow the ticks to hitch a ride on deer or birds into the new territories.

Neitzel says peak activity for ticks is between mid May and mid July.

He says the best way to avoid tick born disease is to apply a good repellent while in wooded and brushy areas.

The first case of Rocky Mountain Spotted fever was reported in the Twin Cities area this year. A child from Dakota County died from the disease.