Experts are cautioning that the snowy winter in Nova Scotia may not lead to a decrease in tick population this year. Contrary to expectations, deep and long-lasting snow actually provides insulation for ticks, aiding their survival. Laura Ferguson, a biology professor at Acadia University, explained that the snow cover acts as a protective layer for ticks, allowing many to survive the winter. Despite some cold spells in December and January, the most effective tick-killing temperatures occurred after the snow had already shielded them.
Ticks typically seek sheltered spots like underneath leaf litter to endure the winter without feeding for months. Extremely cold weather can slow down their metabolism, making it difficult for them to move and feed even if a host passes by. Ticks can endure temperatures of 0°C to –5°C for weeks or months, but consistent temperatures below –10°C without protective coverings can lead to mortality.
Jantina Toxopeus, an associate biology professor at St. Francis Xavier University, noted that ticks may freeze at temperatures below –15°C, with the rate of temperature drop influencing their survival. While sudden temperature changes can be challenging for ticks, slower declines like to –10°C may not be as detrimental. Despite extreme cold temperatures in the past, such as –27°C, the tick population in Nova Scotia remained resilient.
Expectations for this year’s tick season remain steady, with experts predicting a similar population as in previous years due to the ticks’ adaptability to cold conditions. Research continues on tick behavior in varying temperatures to better understand their resilience.