| Tony Hodgdon|
This is the first in a series of articles from the New Gloucester Environmental Resources Committee. Each month we will cover an environmental issue as it relates to and impacts New Gloucester.
New Gloucester sits in the high-risk tick bite section of the state. We know ticks are out there near the ground in bushy and wooded areas. According to the University of Maine Extension there are at least fifteen species of ticks in Maine, although only a few of these species seriously impact our lives.
The blacklegged (deer) tick deserves its notoriety. The Maine CDC reports that this tick not only transmits the bacteria causing Lyme disease but also Powassan virus that can cause severe encephalitis. The adult is about the size of a sesame seed. The male is mostly dark brown in color, the female dark and tan. Nymphs (immature) can also bite and transmit.
The groundhog tick closely resembles the deer tick in appearance. According to the Maine CDC it transmits Powassan virus but not the bacteria causing Lyme disease. Since this tick usually feeds on wild animals, the chances of being infected are considered low. It will, however, bite humans and domestic animals, so be very careful around the nests and dens of host animals such as groundhogs, skunks and raccoons.
The wood (American dog) tick adult is about 3/16 inch long, dark brown with white streaks. It will bite humans, and it transmits the bacteria causing Rocky Mountain spotted fever.
The Maine CDC reported that the lone star tick has moved aggressively north into Maine. This tick is about 3/16 inch long. Its name has nothing to do with Texas; the adult female has a white mark on its back. It transmits the bacteria causing Rocky Mountain spotted fever and a sugar molecule called alpha-gal that can cause mild to severe allergy to red meat and in some cases to dairy products.
The winter or moose tick is not a threat to humans, but it significantly affects deer and moose. According to the Northeast Wildlife Disease Cooperative, an infested moose will host an average of 33,000 winter ticks; moreover, 150,00 have been found on a single moose. These infestations can lead to severe anemia, skin irritation, and hair loss. The moose can be distracted from feeding and die.
We need to protect ourselves from ticks. Fortunately, they can’t fly or jump. If possible, walk in the center of trails in tick frequented areas. Apply repellents on ourselves and pets. Back inside, carefully check ourselves, pets, clothing, and any packs for ticks. Shower as soon as possible, checking again and thoroughly removing any DEET based repellent.
