Ticks in Norway

Ticks are small blood-sucking parasites that feed on birds, reptiles, and mammals, including humans. They are arthropods and are closely related to mites and spiders. More than 900 tick species are found around the world, living in a wide range of environments, from tropical and temperate regions to Arctic and desert areas.

Ticks are common in many parts of Norway, especially in coastal areas. Most tick bites are harmless, but some ticks can carry infections that may cause disease in humans and animals. In Norway, around nine tick species are established. The sheep tick (Ixodes ricinus) is the most common. It thrives in temperate, humid climates and is widespread across Europe. Sheep ticks are very small, often measuring only a few millimetres before feeding.  They are commonly found in woodlands, grassy areas, gardens, and parks. In Norway, they are especially common along the coast from the Oslofjord to Sandnessjøen. Tick abundance varies between regions, with some areas having many ticks and others having few or none.

Ticks do not fly or jump. Instead, they climb onto grass, bushes, or low vegetation and attach themselves to animals or people passing by. Once attached, they look for a suitable place on the skin to bite and feed. Most tick bites are harmless. However, because ticks feed on many different animals, including rodents, birds, deer, and pets, they can sometimes transmit infections to humans and animals. These infections are known as tick-borne infections.