For the first time, the invasive Asian longhorned tick has been discovered in Michigan.
Confirmed in Berrien County by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), this tick raises concerns for both public and animal health across the state.
Whether you live in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, or nearby areas, understanding the risks and prevention steps can help protect your family and pets. Keep reading to find out what makes this tick unique and how to respond.
Key Takeaways
- Asian longhorned ticks were found at Grand Mere State Park in Berrien County, the first detection in Michigan.
- The tick is native to East Asia and known to transmit diseases like bovine theileriosis.
- Female ticks can reproduce without mating, causing large infestations from just one adult female.
- Routine tick checks and professional tick treatments can help keep you and your animals safe.
First Detection Confirmed in Berrien County
In June 2025, Calvin University’s tick surveillance team submitted two tick nymphs from Grand Mere State Park to MDARD. After confirmation by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories, the Asian longhorned tick (Haemaphysalis longicornis) was confirmed as a new species now found in Michigan.
This tick is especially concerning due to its ability to reproduce asexually and feed on both domestic animals and humans. According to the Michigan Department of Agriculture, the discovery represents a significant shift in the state’s tick landscape.
From East Asia to Michigan
Asian longhorned ticks are native to East Asia, including countries like China, Japan, and Korea. Since their first appearance in New Jersey in 2017, these ticks have spread across the eastern United States, reaching Ohio, Indiana, and now Michigan.
MDARD’s collaborative efforts with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), Michigan State University, and USDA are part of a One Health approach to tracking the spread and managing tick-borne diseases.
What They Look Like
These ticks are light brown and look like a sesame seed before feeding. After feeding, especially on large hosts, the adult female swells to a pea-sized shape. Tick nymphs, like those found in Grand Mere State Park, are often mistaken for other tick species due to their small size.
Why They Matter for Animal and Public Health
While they aren’t known to transmit Lyme disease, Asian longhorned ticks are carriers of several dangerous pathogens. One disease of concern is bovine theileriosis, a disease affecting cattle and leading to blood loss, anemia, and even death in severe cases.
Researchers have also found that this tick species may carry viruses like the Powassan virus and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, posing a risk to both animal health and public health. So far, no human cases have been linked to these ticks in Michigan, but the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services continues monitoring efforts.
How Fast Can They Spread?
Asian longhorned ticks don’t need a mate to reproduce. A single adult female can lay up to 2,000 eggs without mating. This parthenogenetic trait allows large infestations to develop quickly, especially in untreated areas with thick vegetation or wildlife access.
Large infestations on domestic animals have been reported in other states. People have found these ticks on dogs, cats, horses, goats, and even chickens. The U.S. Department of Agriculture has warned that unchecked populations can cause significant issues for farms raising cattle, goats, or chickens.
What You Can Do
As a homeowner or property owner in Michigan, you can take a few key steps to reduce the risk of tick bites and manage this emerging species of tick:
- Perform tick checks on animals and yourself after spending time outdoors, especially in wooded or grassy areas.
- Use a tick repellent with EPA-approved ingredients before hiking or working outside.
- Keep your lawn trimmed and remove leaf litter or brush that can shelter ticks.
- Work with your veterinarian to develop tick treatments for domestic animals.
- Submit unusual ticks to the MSU Diagnostic Laboratory for identification, especially if you live near Berrien County or other at-risk zones.
Live in Southwest Michigan and notice a strange-looking tick on your pet or property? It’s best to have it professionally identified before it becomes a bigger issue.
What Pest Pros of Michigan Can Do
At Pest Pros of Michigan, we’ve dealt with a wide range of tick species and understand how these pests behave in our region.
Just give us a call, whether you’re in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, or nearby rural areas; we offer tick surveillance and prevention services customized to your property.
We focus on treatments that protect both people and animals, with long-term strategies designed for Michigan’s unique climate.
FAQs
Has the Asian longhorned tick been found outside of Berrien County?
As of now, the only confirmed site is Grand Mere State Park in Berrien County. Tick surveillance continues statewide through MDARD, Calvin University, and Michigan State University efforts.
Is the Asian longhorned tick dangerous to humans?
While no cases of Powassan virus or Rocky Mountain spotted fever have been confirmed from this tick in Michigan, lab studies show it can carry these pathogens. Continue taking precautions when outdoors.
What should I do if I suspect I have found an Asian longhorned tick?
Place the tick in a sealed container and submit it to the Michigan State University Diagnostic Laboratory. Both MDARD and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services encourage public involvement in early detection.
