MSU researchers target deer to combat growing tick population in Michigan

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) - The population of black-legged ticks is gradually increasing in Michigan, according to data from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.

Professors in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Michigan State University have taken notice of this trend and are working on a potential solution to help curb the rise .

One key point the MSU researchers emphasized is the role of white-tailed deer as a major host for ticks.

As deer populations grow, so does the tick population, since the deer provide an ideal breeding ground for them.

To address this, researchers are currently testing a method that involves capsules filled with corn, molasses, and alfalfa, foods that deer are likely to consume.

These capsules are being placed in local parks and contai