Wood ticks are most likely to be found in open areas with tall grass or brush. Adults are first noticed in late April and remain to abundant through June. Numbers seem to decline sharply after that, but some occur all summer. It is transported here from areas south of Massachusetts on pets and occasionally on clothes. Although this species is not likely to feed on humans, it has been found in homes- even on beds.
Dogs are the brown tick's favorite host and source of bloodmeals.
This is why the tick is most often found in kennels and pet beds. Rats and mice may also be intermit hosts. This tick does not overwinter in Maine. The most important consideration is personal preventive measures such as wearing full-length garments that are tight around the wrist, ankle, and neck and treating exposed areas with a repellent. A permethrin-based repellent is available for treating clothes.