First Detection of Invasive Asian Longhorned Tick in Maine

An invasive tick species has been identified in Maine for the first time, marking the northeasternmost occurrence of this pest in the United States. The tick was collected in southern Maine in July by the University of Maine Extension Tick Lab and confirmed through identification. Although this is Maine's initial confirmed case, health officials are vigilant about the potential risks posed by tickborne diseases such as spotted fever.

Experts emphasize the importance of ongoing tick surveillance in the state. According to Griffin Dill, director of the tick lab, "While this appears to be an isolated incident, we are closely monitoring the situation and working with both state and federal agencies."

The Asian longhorned tick was first discovered in the U.S. in New Jersey in 2017 and has since been reported in over 20 states, predominantly in the eastern regions. These ticks can spread via pets, livestock, and wildlife, though the exact mechanisms of their introduction into new areas remain uncertain. The Maine specimen was a juvenile, which means it was not capable of reproduction. Follow-up searches in the vicinity did not yield additional ticks.

This species feeds on various hosts, including cattle, pets, and humans, raising concerns for public health and agriculture. Notably, female Asian longhorned ticks can reproduce asexually without mating, enabling a single tick to establish a new population. Researchers continue to evaluate their potential to transmit pathogens within the U.S.

Currently, blacklegged ticks, also known as deer ticks, remain the primary concern in the Northeast, particularly for transmitting Lyme disease and other infections.

For more detailed information about ticks, visit the CDC’s dedicated page at https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/index.html.