Will 2026 Be One of the Worst Tick Seasons Ever? Experts Say Maybe

We know this is not the news you want to hear if you have children or pets, particularly if they spend time in heavily wooded areas.

But it’s important to know that data is pointing to 2026 being one of the worst tick seasons in recent memory, and experts are warning families to take extra care in protecting their kids and pets.

Here’s what you need to know, and how you can get rid of ticks in the yard during one of the worst seasons ever.

Lyme Disease Cases are on the Rise

Lyme disease is transmitted from ticks to humans, which is the main reason we avoid them. 

This has always been a problem, particularly for people who live in (or spend a lot of time in) heavily wooded areas. However, recent data show that this is increasingly becoming more of a problem across Canada:

• The national case count of Lyme disease has been trending upward since 2009

• The incidence rate of Lyme disease in Canada in 2024 was 14.1 compared to 11.9 per 100,000 population in 2023

• 96% of cases were reported by Ontario, Nova Scotia, and Quebec

• 67% of cases were reported between June and August.

At the same time, some parts of Canada are seeing spikes of 70% or more in health units reporting cases of Lyme disease linked to tick bites.

Tick Season is Starting Earlier & Going Longer

Increased temperatures are creating more feeding opportunities and more reproduction, which in turn is leading to more ticks. This is increasing the sheer volume of ticks, which is leading to more bites.

However, that’s not all! Tick season is now starting earlier, while longer warm seasons mean tick season is also growing longer. This season is typically somewhere in between April and October. However, warmer temperatures mean this season can both start sooner and run longer.

It also means we’re seeing ticks and tick bites in areas where they have never been a problem before, which means Tick Country is getting larger and safe zones are getting smaller.

How To Control Ticks in Your Yard to Protect Your Kids & Pets

Experts recommend protecting yourself and your children by:

• Using a registered insect repellent 

• Treating shoes and clothing with effective repellent products

• Performing frequent tick checks

• Removing attached ticks as quickly as possible

Of course, your pets don’t wear clothes. So, what is the safest flea and tick control for dogs and cats? If you want to take real action towards reducing the tick population in your yard, Mosquito Hero offers a tick control service to eliminate these pests from your property and prevent further tick activity.

“I love this company. Great customer service and results. Using a Mosquito Hero program means I can enjoy being outside all summer and it also protects my dog.” 5-Star Google review.

You can start by finding a Mosquito Hero location in your area right now.