The distribution of Ixodes scapularis was studied in a corridor of Upper Michigan between Menominee and Marquette counties by flagging and trapping. Sixty-nine sites were chosen for macroenvironmental characteristics, and microenvironmental characteristics (soil type, moisture, and pH and leaf litter moisture) were investigated as indicators of the presence of deer ticks. Results indicate that deer ticks have not expanded their population within the corridor in 14 years. Soil type, pH and leaf litter moisture were not significant indicators of the presence of deer ticks. There was a significant interaction between soil moisture and tick presence, with a higher proportion of deer ticks in areas with low available water capacity. There was no significant difference in prevalence and intensity of deer ticks on Peromyscus leucopus (intensity = 1.6 ticks/infected mouse, prevalence = 100% mice infested) and P. maniculatus (intensity = 4.0 ticks/infected mouse, prevalence = 75% mice infested).
