If you’re an avid trail runner, hiker or the type that likes to spend their time outdoors, the chances are you have already encountered a tick and are versed in what to do if you find one. If you’re a dog owner, you’ve probably had to deal with these nuisance creatures on more than one occasion. When it comes to ticks and trail running, or any other type of outdoor activity, you need to know what ticks are, what they do and how you should deal with them!

In this article, we offer advice on: 

  • How to avoid ticks when trail running
  • Identifying ticks – what do they look like?
  • How to remove them safely and in full
  • Lyme disease and what to watch out for 

Why you need to know about ticks 

We’re not trying to scaremonger here, especially if you are new to trail running but, ticks are an issue that need to be taken seriously. They spread disease and should be avoided, or at least identified and removed immediately. 

You are more likely to encounter a tick in grassy or woodland areas, the types of terrain you will experience when trail running, hiking, camping, brushing the dogs after a wild walk and generally spending time in nature. 

Lyme disease has long been the main concern associated with ticks and tick bites however, with the discovery of Tick-borne encephalitis (TBEV) in the UK, it’s perhaps more of a concern. For this reason, you must be fully versed in the possible consequences of ticks and trail running.

What is a tick?

Ticks are tiny arachnids from the Parasitiformes order, which includes hard ticks (Ixodidae) and soft ticks (Argasidae). As ectoparasites, ticks feed externally on the blood of various hosts—mammals, birds, reptiles, and sometimes amphibians. Their life cycle has four stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult, with each stage requiring a blood meal to move to the next.

To feed, ticks use specialized mouthparts called chelicerae and a hypostome, which allow them to pierce the skin and securely anchor themselves. Their saliva contains anticoagulants, anaesthetics, and immune-modulating compounds, enabling them to feed undetected for extended periods.

Structurally, ticks have a tough outer exoskeleton and, as adults, four pairs of legs (three pairs in the nymph stage). They thrive in grassy, wooded, or brushy areas where they can easily latch onto passing hosts. To avoid ticks and potential tick-borne illnesses, it’s essential to check for them after outdoor activities and take preventive steps, like wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent.

When is tick season?

Ticks are most active during warmer months, typically from spring to early fall, when temperatures range from 45°F (7°C) and above. However, the exact timing can vary depending on your location and local climate conditions. In some regions, ticks may become active as early as March or April and remain active until October or November. It’s essential to be vigilant and take preventive measures such as wearing long clothing, using insect repellent, and checking for ticks after spending time outdoors during these seasons.

How to spot a tick 

Young ticks can be difficult to spot as they are so tiny. They are only as big as a pinhead but they do carry diseases as they can still bite! Adult ticks are easier to spot. They are approximately the size of an apple seed. When they have had a good feed and are attached to a host, they become very fat and round and are a lot easier to spot. At this stage though, they have already been there a while.

How to remove ticks 

Here’s a quick and safe guide on how to remove a tick:

  1. Use Fine-Tipped Tweezers: Grab a pair of fine-tipped tweezers to ensure you can get as close to the skin as possible. Avoid squeezing or crushing the tick’s body, as this can force infected fluid back into your skin.
  2. Grip the Tick Close to the Skin: Hold the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible, gripping its head or mouthparts. Avoid gripping the body, as this can cause the tick to break apart, leaving mouthparts embedded.
  3. Pull Upward with Steady, Even Pressure: Pull slowly and steadily without twisting or jerking, which can break off parts of the tick in the skin. Continue to pull upward until the tick releases.
  4. Clean the Area: After removing the tick, thoroughly clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, iodine scrub, or soap and water.
  5. Dispose of the Tick Safely: You can kill the tick by submerging it in alcohol, sealing it in a bag, or flushing it down the toilet. Some recommend keeping the tick in a sealed container in case symptoms develop, as testing can help with diagnosis.
  6. Watch for Symptoms: Keep an eye on the bite area. If you develop a rash, fever, or flu-like symptoms within a few weeks, consult a doctor and inform them of the tick bite, as these can be signs of a tick-borne illness.

Avoid Home Remedies like using petroleum jelly, nail polish, or heat to remove the tick, as these methods can actually increase the chance of disease transmission.

Once you have removed the tick, be careful how you discard it. If you just throw it out in the garden, it has the chance to reattach itself to something else. You need to squish it and dispose of it so that it can’t find a new host – the dog or cat for example.

How to avoid ticks

The best way to avoid ticks is to stay away from areas they like to inhabit however, trail runners, and other outdoorsy types will know how hard that is. Where possible though, stick to the footpaths, avoid running through long grass and growth.

You could wear leggings or long socks too if you know you are going to be running through long grass and woodland. This will also protect you from bramble scratches. 

Use an insect repellent which can be applied pre-run or activity to keep them at bay.

Check yourself after your run, walk or activity. Pay particular attention to areas such as If you are quick, you may be able to brush ticks off before they make themselves at home. If you find one, remove it and then clean the area with soap and water or antiseptic. 

Lyme disease 

Most tick bites are harmless, but in a small number of instances, they can carry  Lyme disease. It is important to be aware of the symptoms as the sooner you get treated the better. Early symptoms of Lyme disease can present as a circular red ‘bull’s eye’ rash around the site of a tick bite. Be warned that not everyone gets a rash. Also be aware of flu-like symptoms including fever, headache, tiredness and general aches and pains. 

If you are bitten by a tick and experience any of these symptoms see a GP as soon as possible. You can learn more about Lyme disease on the NHS website.

This article is not designed to put you off trail running or any of your other favourite outdoor activities, just to make you aware of ticks and the damage they can cause. As long as you check yourself, and your dog after a run or walk, and remove any ticks quickly, you will have little to worry about.