Where is encephalitic tick most commonly found? - briefly
The encephalitic tick (Ixodes ricinus) is most prevalent in temperate forest and meadow habitats throughout central and northern Europe, extending into parts of western Asia. It thrives in humid, vegetated areas such as woodlands, shrublands, and grasslands where it can easily attach to wildlife and humans.
Where is encephalitic tick most commonly found? - in detail
The tick that transmits tick‑borne encephalitis is most prevalent in temperate, humid environments across Europe and parts of Asia. It thrives in forested habitats where leaf litter, moss, and low vegetation provide the moisture and shelter necessary for its life cycle.
Key geographical zones include:
- Central and Eastern Europe: Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and the Baltic states.
- Northern Europe: Sweden, Finland, Norway, Denmark, and the Baltic region.
- Western Russia and the Russian Far East: especially the European part of Russia and Siberian forest zones.
- Central and East Asia: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and northern parts of China where mixed and coniferous forests occur.
Within these regions, the tick prefers:
- Deciduous and mixed woodlands, particularly those with abundant under‑brush and a thick layer of decomposing leaves.
- Meadow edges and pastures adjacent to forested areas, where grasses and herbaceous plants retain humidity.
- Urban and suburban parks that contain mature trees, shaded pathways, and unmanaged grass or shrubbery.
Seasonal activity peaks in late spring to early summer and again in early autumn, corresponding to periods of high humidity and moderate temperatures. Altitudinal distribution extends up to roughly 2,000 m, with density decreasing at higher elevations where the microclimate becomes drier.
Overall, the vector’s distribution mirrors the range of suitable, moisture‑rich forest ecosystems in the temperate zones of Europe and adjacent Asian territories.