ticks

Summer Study Tells the Story: Lone Star Tick Threat Is Growing

Julia Wells

A post-summer report says tick populations are up, especially the newest species of disease-carrying arachnid to invade Martha’s Vineyard: the lone star tick.

Tuck in Your Socks, Lone Star Ticks Are Here

Richard Johnson

Lone star tick nymphs and adults are spreading and increasing in numbers, data from the MV Tick Programs 2018 yard surveys shows.

Apparent Case of Tularemia Sparks Discussion

Julia Wells

The recent death of a seasonal resident with an apparent case of tularemia has sparked renewed discussion about tick-borne illnesses.

State Extends Archery Season for Deer

Landry Harlan

The archery season for deer will be extended by two weeks in an area of the state that includes the Vineyard, state officials announced last week.

Tick Fair at Agricultural Hall

Dukes County and the Island boards of health are sponsoring a Martha’s Vineyard Tick Fair on Saturday, July 28.

New Maps Document Spread of Ticks

Landry Harlan

Maps prepared by cartographer Chris Seidel document the spread of deer ticks, dog ticks and lone star ticks.

Deer Harvest Is Up, Bolstering Work of Tick-Borne Illness Programs

Sara Brown

Island hunters took nearly 800 deer during the 2017 deer hunting season, the highest harvest in at least 16 years, according to recently released state data.

Shotgun Hunting Season Brings Gift of Venison, Research Opportunities

Steve Myrick

Shotgun hunting season began Monday, and the weigh station was busy this week with hunters, biologists collecting ticks, and a new deer donation program.