Yellowstone Times

Montana State University's Schutter Diagnostic Lab has identified the first known blacklegged tick in the state. This tick is known to carry and transmit Lyme disease. Rocky Mountain wood ticks and American dog ticks are frequently encountered in Montana, but these species do not transmit Lyme disease like the blacklegged tick can. The specimen was found on a hunter's dog in eastern Montana.

Marni Rolston, a diagnostician at MSU Extension’s Schutter Diagnostic Lab, identified the tick specimen. Rolston collaborated with scientists from the National Institutes of Health’s Rocky Mountain Laboratory in Hamilton to confirm the identification through DNA sequencing. "This is the first time we’ve seen this species in the state," Rolston stated. She emphasized the importance of verifying the discovery due to its potential implications.

The smaller blacklegged ticks stand out compared to the ticks commonly found in Montana. Bob Peterson, a Montana State University entomologist, highlighted the significance of the discovery. "This discovery is incredibly important because it greatly expands the geographic range of the blacklegged tick, a carrier of the pathogen that causes Lyme Disease," Peterson explained.

MSU Extension’s Schutter Diagnostic Lab, specializing in plant health and related organisms, has offered its identification services free to Montana residents. The lab collaborates with Montana counties and reservations to provide identifications and management suggestions. In addition to insects, the lab examines plant diseases and various environmental issues. The lab encourages submission of samples via its website, with the option to email photos if specimens are unavailable.

Rolston noted the lab's role extends beyond identification. It also provides management strategies to maintain the health of animals, crops, and environments. In the case of the blacklegged tick, the lab aims to inform veterinarians. "We're very proud that we can provide these services for free for the citizens of Montana in all 56 counties and seven reservations," Rolston said.

The lab is set to collaborate with the Montana Department of Agriculture and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services for information dissemination regarding ticks. Rolston advised individuals concerned about Lyme disease to consult their healthcare provider since the Schutter lab does not test ticks for pathogens.

Despite blacklegged ticks' association with Lyme disease, other tick species in Montana carry different illnesses, such as Colorado tick fever and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Rolston stressed the importance of tick awareness and management to prevent tickborne illnesses. MSU Extension provides additional information through its Extension Urban Alerts program.

Peak tick season in Montana runs from late spring to early fall, with heightened activity in May and June. Preventive measures include wearing protective clothing, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks after being outdoors.