Tick season is in full swing—and this year’s shaping up to be a big one. Emergency room visits for tick bites in the U.S. have reached their highest level since 2019, and more than 31 million Americans are estimated to be bitten annually. But here’s the good news: most tick-borne illnesses, like Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, can be prevented with early detection and quick removal.
So, where do these tiny bloodsuckers like to hide? According to infectious disease experts, ticks crawl around until they find warm, tight spots to latch on—areas where clothing rubs or skin folds provide cover.
Top 12 Tick Hideouts on the Body
- Scalp and hairline
- Behind the ears
- Along the neck
- Underarms
- Elbows and upper arms
- Waistline and belt area
- Around the belly button
- Lower back
- Groin and pelvic region
- Behind the knees
- Thighs and calves
- Ankles and between toes
Kids are especially prone to bites around the head and neck, while ticks like the lone star or dog tick tend to favor the lower body or hairline in adults.
How to Spot and Remove a Tick
After being outdoors, shower within two hours and do a full-body check using a mirror. Look carefully in creases and hard-to-see areas. If you find a tick:
- Use tweezers to grasp it close to the skin
- Pull upward gently but firmly
- Clean the bite with soap and water or alcohol
- Watch for symptoms like fever or a rash in the coming days
Quick removal can stop infection before it starts. And remember, prevention is your best defense—long sleeves, insect repellent, and tick checks can go a long way.
