Submit a Tick for Identification
Teton County Weed & Pest District provides free species identification for ticks that were collected off of people or animals in Wyoming. These submissions also support passive tick surveillance by helping us better understand which tick species occur in Wyoming, where they are found, and when they are active.
Important Testing Information
TCWP provides tick species identification for informational purposes only so people have that information for their doctor should they need it. We are not a medical diagnostic laboratory and do not test ticks to determine whether someone may have been exposed to a tick-borne disease. If you have concerns about a tick bite or develop symptoms, contact a licensed healthcare provider.
Step 1
We Need the Tick, Not a Photograph
Please submit the actual tick specimen rather than a photograph. Many Wyoming tick species look similar to one another, and accurate identification often requires examining small features under a microscope that cannot be seen clearly in a picture.
Step 2
Collect and Store the Tick
After removing the tick, place it in a sealed plastic bag or small, secure container. You may also gently attach it to clear packing tape and secure the tape to an index card or piece of cardstock. Please do not crush the tick.
Whenever possible, submit the tick within a few days of collection.
Include Collection Information
Here is an example of a tick collection data sheet that can be included with the specimen. At minimum, please provide:
- The date the tick was found
- The location where the tick was likely encountered
- Whether it was found on a person or animal
- Whether it was attached and bloodfed
Step 3
Mail or Drop Off Your Tick
Ticks and completed data sheets may be mailed or dropped off at:
Teton County Weed & Pest District
ATTN: Mikenna Smith / Laboratory
7575 South US Highway 89
Jackson, WY 83001