Do Freezing Temperatures Kill Ticks in Connecticut? Scientists Explain

The article takes a look at how Connecticut’s recent run of below-freezing days might affect tick populations. It also digs into what scientists know about ticks’ cold defenses, plus what folks from Hartford to New London should actually do to stay safe outside this winter—and honestly, probably beyond.

Impact of the cold on Connecticut’s tick population

Connecticut’s cold snap probably won’t cause a dramatic drop in tick numbers. Dr. Goudarz Molaei from the Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station says ticks have a bunch of tricks for surviving the cold.

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Some go dormant. Others, depending on the species, produce natural antifreeze compounds.

Snow cover helps a lot by insulating the ground, which keeps ticks out of the worst cold. If temperatures stayed below about 10°F for a while, more ticks would die, but that hasn’t really happened this winter—especially with all the snow around.

Blacklegged (deer) ticks are especially good at handling cold. Invasive species like Lone Star and Gulf Coast ticks don’t fare as well during severe freezes.

This year’s heavy CT snow probably cushioned the cold’s impact, so if tick numbers drop, it’ll be minor at best. Still, when people get outside, ticks can wake up as soon as daytime temperatures creep above freezing.

Many tick species get active again when it’s above roughly 35°F. So, winter isn’t really a free pass.

Cold-tolerance basics and species differences

Molaei points out that winter survival for ticks is a mix of microclimates, insulation, and what life stage the tick’s in. A few really cold nights can bump up tick deaths, but most CT towns haven’t seen the kind of cold that wipes out tick populations.

This matters in places like Manchester, Stamford, Norwalk, and Bridgeport. Outdoor folks in those areas often share trails with ticks, whether they see them or not.

Tick activity and reporting across Connecticut communities

Statewide tick data shows a seasonal pattern, and last year hit a record high. CT’s CAES system logged over 6,000 tick submissions in 2025—way above the average of about 3,000.

This winter, submissions haven’t surged, but researchers warn that more ticks sent in doesn’t always mean there are more ticks overall. It does suggest people keep running into ticks, from cities out to the coast.

In towns like Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, Bridgeport, and Waterbury, residents have noticed activity that matches up with the idea that ticks are a year-round worry—especially when it warms up even a little.

CAES says the ticks tested so far this year show that ticks persist, even during cold spells. They remind everyone that tick risk goes up as soon as daytime temps get above freezing.

People hiking in the woods near Danbury, Norwalk, Groton, and New London should stay alert, even if it still feels like winter.

Where tick activity is most likely to be noticed

Whether you’re in a coastal or inland CT town, hikers and joggers from Norwich to Torrington should know tick activity can bounce back fast when it warms up. Even a cold snap doesn’t mean you can skip prevention.

Folks in Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, and Stamford should plan for ticks when heading outside, especially in late winter and early spring as temperatures bounce around freezing.

Prevention tips for CT outdoor enthusiasts

No matter how much snow is on the ground or what the thermometer says, CT residents should keep up with tick prevention. Whether you’re walking in West Hartford, Middletown, or Milford, a few simple steps can lower your risk.

The Connecticut CAES points out that ticks can hitch a ride into backyards and parks, so prevention isn’t just for summer—it’s something to think about all year.

Practical steps residents should take

Wear long sleeves and pants. Tuck your pants into your socks when hiking through leaf litter in East Hartford or Old Saybrook.
Apply EPA-approved repellents to your skin and clothes. This is especially important when you visit Norwalk, New Britain, or Bridgeport parks.
Check your body and clothes for ticks after spending time outside in towns like Danbury and Waterbury. Remove any ticks you find as soon as possible.
Wash and dry your clothing thoroughly. That should take care of any ticks that might’ve hitched a ride.
Inspect your pets after outdoor outings in Groton and coastal towns. Ask your vet about tick preventives—they’re usually worth it.
Shower after coming inside to wash off any unattached ticks. Don’t forget to check your whole body.
Keep your lawn trimmed. Create clear boundaries around wooded areas near Manchester and Tolland to make your yard less attractive to ticks.

People in Hartford, New Haven, Stamford, Bridgeport, Waterbury, Danbury, Norwalk, and Groton keep heading outdoors, even in winter. Molaei and the CAES keep reminding everyone: winter doesn’t mean tick risk disappears. Preparation matters if you want to explore from Danbury to New London—and honestly, who doesn’t want to enjoy Connecticut’s winter landscapes?

Here is the source article for this story: Will freezing temperatures kill ticks in CT? The answer is complicated, scientists say

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