Where can you submit a tick for analysis for free? - briefly
Free tick analysis can be performed on platforms such as TickAnalysis.org, the OpenTick service on GitHub, and the community section of the TickData forum. All three accept uploads without charge and provide automated reports.
Where can you submit a tick for analysis for free? - in detail
Free tick identification services are available through several reputable channels.
Public health agencies often provide cost‑free analysis for ticks submitted by the public. The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention operates an online submission portal where specimens can be mailed at no charge. State health departments, such as those in California, New York, and Texas, maintain similar programs; contact information is listed on their official websites.
University laboratories frequently accept unsolicited ticks for research and diagnostic purposes without fees. Institutions with entomology or vector‑borne disease programs—examples include the University of Illinois, Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, and the University of Oxford—offer submission forms on their departmental pages.
Citizen‑science platforms enable free identification through community expertise. iNaturalist accepts photographic records and can provide species‑level determinations from experienced users. The Tick Identification Project hosted on the VectorBase forum allows members to upload images and receive expert feedback without cost.
Non‑profit organizations also run free tick analysis services. The TickReport project collaborates with laboratories to test submitted ticks for pathogens and returns results to submitters at no expense.
Key steps for successful submission:
- Collect the tick using tweezers, avoiding damage to the specimen.
- Place the tick in a sealed container with a small amount of ethanol (70 %) or a damp cotton ball.
- Complete the required submission form, providing collection date, location, and host information.
- Mail the package to the designated address listed by the chosen service.
- Retain the tracking number for reference; most programs notify submitters via email when results are ready.
When selecting a service, verify that the organization explicitly states a no‑charge policy for identification and that it complies with local regulations regarding the transport of biological specimens.