02/21/2026
In recent years, Lone Star ticks (Amblyomma americanum), once mostly found in the southeastern U.S., have been expanding into New England, with established populations now documented in parts of Massachusetts and neighboring states, likely due to warmer winters, expanding deer populations, and changes in habitat.
Unlike blacklegged (deer) ticks, Lone Star ticks are very aggressive human biters and can carry different pathogens, including the bacteria that cause ehrlichiosis, tularemia, and other illnesses, plus they’re associated with alpha-gal syndrome, an allergy to red meat that can develop after a bite and persist long-term. Their broader range of habitats and expanding populations mean more people in New England may encounter them, so awareness and bite-prevention measures are increasingly important.
📝 Tick questionnaires ➡️ BebopLabs.org/send-ticks
🔬 Our research publication ➡️ BebopLabs.org/our-publications
💌 Donations ➡️ BebopLabs.org/donations/bebop-labs-donation
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Throughout the year we apply for grants and ask for donations to make tick testing free.