Fordham Tick Index

The Weekend Deer Tick Index

November 15 to 17, 2024

4 out of 10

The Fordham Tick Index is an estimate of the risk of being bitten by a nymphal or adult deer tick. Both of these stages are active at this time of year, although the smaller nymph is responsible for many more cases of Lyme disease. This index measures risk relative to other times of year. For more information about preventing tick bites, controlling ticks, Lyme disease and other illnesses ticks carry, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The Fordham Tick Index is provided as a weekly public service by Fordham University and is based on both current and historical data from one site in Westchester County, N.Y. It is an estimate only. Actual risk may vary geographically. Therefore, always take precautions to prevent tick bites when outdoors.

Tick Fact of the Week

Toxic, nocturnal cane toads, native to South America, were released in Hawaii during the 1930s to combat sugar cane insects. Not only didn’t the effort work, it freed the toads from being parasitized by Amblyomma rotundatum, a tick that specializes in feeding on amphibians and reptiles.

For further information, contact Thomas Daniels.