Ticks of the
Ruby Mountains
The American Dog Tick (Dermacentor variabilis) can be found in the Ruby Mountains and in great numbers. We find these ticks around Mountain Mahoganys in the fall, winter and spring. We do not see these ticks very much during the summer months or when we stay out of the Mountain Mahoganys and stay in the sage brush.

The American Dog Tick is classified as a hard tick and does not transmit Lyme disease. This certian tick can transmit Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever. It might be good to know that out of all of these ticks that we have found on us none have been feeding. Also this is the only type of tick that we have seen while hiking in the Ruby Mountains.

  • Resources:
    Iowa Insect Information
    Pest Products