# Ixodes scapularis Tick Parasitizing Dog in Dawson County, Montana, USA, 2023

## TL;DR

A tick species known as Ixodes scapularis was found on a dog in Montana, indicating a possible expansion of its geographic range.

## Contribution

The discovery of I. scapularis in Montana suggests a geographic range expansion and highlights the need for public health monitoring.

## Key findings

- A partially engorged Ixodes scapularis tick was identified from a dog in Bozeman, Montana.
- The tick was confirmed as I. scapularis using morphologic and genomic methods.
- The finding suggests a potential expansion of the tick's geographic distribution.

## Abstract

In October 2023, a partially engorged female Ixodes tick was removed from a dog in Bozeman, Montana, USA, that had recently spent time in eastern Montana. The tick was identified as I. scapularis according to morphologic characteristics and genomic sequencing, suggesting an expanded geographic distribution requiring continued public health surveillance.