Ticks Are On The Rise In 2026

The Shocking Rise of Ticks: What New Jersey Homeowners Need to Know

If you live in New Jersey, you probably love spending time outdoors. But there is a growing problem hiding in the grass. Ticks are becoming much more common across the state, and they are bringing dangerous sicknesses with them.

According to recent health reports, emergency room visits for tick bites in the Northeast have reached record levels. In some areas, these hospital visits have nearly doubled compared to past years. The New Jersey Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that New Jersey currently has the third-highest rate of Lyme disease in the entire country.

Unfortunately, Ocean and Monmouth counties are among the hardest-hit areas in the state. So, why are ticks suddenly taking over our backyards?

Why Ae Ticks on the Rise?

Experts say a few things are causing this tick explosion. First, warmer weather means ticks can survive and stay active for more months out of the year. Second, as more neighborhoods are built near wooded areas, humans are living closer to where ticks naturally breed. Finally, small animals—especially white-footed mice—act like free taxis for ticks, carrying them out of the woods and right onto our lawns.

Where Do Ticks Hide?

Many people think you have to go deep into the forest to get a tick bite. That is a myth. The risk is right at your doorstep. Ticks love the "Edge Zones" of a yard. These are the highest-risk spots for families and pets:

• Wooded Borders: Anywhere a manicured lawn meets the woods.

• Grassy Edges: Tall grass and weeds along fences that have not been mowed.

• Shady Spots: Dark, damp areas like under the deck, behind the shed, or near brush piles.

Ticks do not jump or fly. Instead, they climb up tall blades of grass in these edge zones and stretch their legs out, waiting to grab onto anyone who walks by.

How Ozane Can Protect Your Family

Homeowners do not have to wait for a stressful trip to the ER to take action. Prevention is always better than removal, and that is where Ozane Termite and Pest Control steps in.

Ozane has been the Jersey standard for protection since 1917. They understand exactly how to handle local pest problems in Toms River and throughout Ocean and Monmouth counties. To keep families safe, Ozane offers a specialized service called Yard Guard. This treatment specifically targets those risky "Edge Zones" and eliminates ticks before they can reach your skin.

You should not have to worry every time your kids or dogs go outside to play. By trusting the experts at Ozane Termite and Pest Control, homeowners can take back their yards and enjoy a safe, tick-free season. Start your free quote.

Sources:

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): National and State Lyme Disease Surveillance Data

• New Jersey Department of Health: Communicable Disease Service and Tick-Borne Illness Reports