Ticks may be small, but they’re very resilient in a variety of conditions. They can be found in some of the coldest places on Earth, and they also can be found in warm, humid climates. As temperatures drop, ticks remain active and looking for a host – either a human or animal – to feed on. So the question remains, can ticks survive cold weather?
What Temperature do Ticks Survive?
Winter Ticks
Most species of tick are able to survive in temperatures between 40°F and 50°F, but there are some species of ticks, such as winter ticks, that can tolerate even lower temperatures. Winter ticks can survive temperatures as low as 16°F and even lower.
Hibernating Ticks
Ticks are cold-blooded creatures and are highly sensitive to changes in temperature. When temperatures drop, ticks may enter a state of hibernation in search of warmth. During this process, ticks slow down their metabolic rate, allowing them to survive the cold winter months until temperatures reach the range for which they can survive.
Temperature Extremes
Ticks have been found to have a very high threshold for temperature extremes. Under laboratory conditions, some species of ticks have been documented to survive temperatures as low as -45°F and as high as 135°F. This means that while colder temperatures can cause ticks to become dormant, they can still survive the cold winter months.
Where Do Ticks Hide in Winter?
Dry Locations
Ticks can survive the cold weather by seeking out dry locations where temperatures remain above the freezing point. Areas with thick vegetation or foliage provide the perfect hideouts for these sneaky insects, as well as underneath tree bark, in wood piles, and under leaf litter.
Animal Furs
Ticks also can hide away in winter months in the fur of larger animals, such as deer and mice. This provides warmth and shelter while they wait out the cold temperatures. Additionally, some species of ticks can survive in a single location for more than one season, waiting out the winter in a secluded place.
Household Cracks
Ticks also can survive in much more unexpected places. In the winter months, ticks can end up in small cracks and crevices in walls and floors of homes, seeking out the warmth and shelter of an indoor environment.
People Also Ask
Do ticks die in the cold?
Ticks can survive in cold temperatures, but they do become less active. In extreme cold temperatures, ticks may not die, but may enter a state of hibernation.
Do ticks die in the winter?
No, ticks do not necessarily die in the winter. Some species of ticks can survive in temperatures as low as -45°F and they may enter a state of hibernation to survive the cold winter months.
Can ticks be active in winter?
Yes, ticks can be active in the winter months. They can survive in temperatures as low as 40°F and seek out warm, dry places to shelter while they wait out the cold temperatures.
How cold is too cold for ticks?
Ticks can survive in temperatures as low as -45°F, but they may enter a state of hibernation in order to survive the cold temperatures.
Do ticks prefer hot or cold weather?
Ticks prefer moderately warm weather and tend to become less active in extreme temperatures, whether extremely cold or hot.
Final Words
While ticks are usually discouraged by extreme temperatures, they can survive in any condition given the right conditions. Understanding how your local tick population behaves during the winter is key to ensuring they don’t become an issue. Just remember: ticks are resilient – so monitoring your environment is the best way to keep their numbers down!