Ticks
Ticks are small, blood-feeding arachnids found across many continents and here in the UK. They can live many envieonments from woodland to grassland, moorland, and garden hedgerows. This section covers major things you need to know including: tick ecology and lifecycles, how to protect yourself from bites, and what illnesses they can transmit to be aware of.
Looking for info on mosquitoes? Visit the Mosquitoes hub.
UK Species
Four tick species which can beregularly encountered in the UK are covered on this site. Click any species to learn more.
Ixodes ricinus
Sheep Tick / Castor Bean Tick
The most widespread UK tick, found in many environments. Responsible for the human bites and a substatial burden of tick-borne disease in the UK.
Dermacentor reticulatus
Ornate Cow Tick
Recognisable by its ornate patterned back, this tick is found mainly in coastal areas of Wales, Devon, and Essex.
Ixodes hexagonus
Hedgehog Tick
Primarily a parasite of hedgehogs and other small mammals, pets can pick these up when roaming near dens. Capable of carrying Lyme disease bacteria.
Haemaphysalis punctata
Coastal Red Tick / Red Sheep Tick
A smaller, less-common species associated with southern England.
Prevention & Removal
Ticks can generally be removed safely, both before and after they've bite, however early removal greatly reduces the risk of disease transmission.
Prevent Bites
Find advice on outdoor clothing choices, insect repellents, and conducting tick checks after outdoor activity. Learn how to reduce tick bite risk, no matter what you're up to outside.
Read the guide →Tick Removal
Step-by-step instructions for safely removing an attached tick with tweezers or a tick tool, what you can do with the tick afterwards, and what symptoms to watch for in the weeks that follow to have the best chance of protecting yourself from illness.
Read the guide →Tick-Borne Diseases in the UK
Not every tick bite leads to illness, but ticks can carry a range of pathogens which can make humans and animals ill. Being aware of symptoms means you can seek medical advice promptly from professionals if needed.