Is Cold Weather Ticking off Ticks?

Berlin, Vt. (WCAX) -

http://www.wcax.com/content/news/Is-Cold-Weather-Ticking-off-Ticks-468245183.html

Deer ticks have become more than just a nuisance in Vermont. Entomologists say over fifty percent of the deer ticks in the state carry Lyme Disease.

There's more bad news. These arctic cold temperatures will probably have little effect on decreasing the population of these arachnids. Despite not having an internal way to keep themselves warm, deer ticks can survive under the snow.

"The temperature beneath the snow in many cases, will keep the soil from freezing. So they're nicely protected," Director of UVM's Entomology Research Laboratory, Bruce Parker said.

Vermont's state Entomologist, Judy Rosovsky, is a little more optimistic.

"There are temperatures below which they're going to freeze no matter what and its just a question of how insulated are they in a leaf litter," Rosovsky said.

There's no substantial research that connects cold weather with the deer tick population. Even if there is a decrease in the Spring, Rosvosky says it will be difficult to pinpoint weather as the exact cause.

(Con't)

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