11th June 2026
Ticks, Lyme Disease & the Scottish Highlands
At Balnagown, set in the heart of beautiful Ross-shire, we are surrounded by some of Scotland’s most breathtaking landscapes. From sweeping coastlines and quiet beaches to forests, hills, and abundant wildlife, there is no shortage of opportunities to explore. With award-winning whisky, world-class golf, and miles of walking and cycling routes nearby, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with the Highlands. While the natural environment here is part of its charm, it’s important to be aware of one small but significant aspect of outdoor life: ticks and the potential risk of Lyme disease.
What Are Ticks?
Ticks are tiny parasitic arachnids, related to spiders and mites, found throughout Scotland. The most common species in this region are the sheep or deer tick (Ixodes ricinus) and the hedgehog tick (Ixodes hexagonus). Ticks are extremely small—often no bigger than a poppy seed when unfed—but can grow to around 10 mm when fully engorged. They live in grassland, woodland, and moorland, attaching to animals and occasionally humans as they brush past vegetation.
Lyme disease is most easily treated when identified early.
Do Ticks Carry Disease?
Some ticks can carry Lyme disease, a bacterial infection caused by Borrelia (most commonly Borrelia burgdorferi). Not all ticks are infected, and the overall risk is relatively low, but awareness is important. Lyme disease is most easily treated when identified early. Ticks are active throughout the year, though they are most commonly encountered during the spring and summer months.
How to Reduce Your Risk
- Stay on clear, well-defined paths where possible
- Avoid brushing against long grass, bracken, and dense vegetation
- Wear long trousers and long sleeves
- Choose light-coloured clothing to help spot ticks more easily
- Tuck trousers into socks or wear gaiters in higher-risk areas
- Use a suitable insect repellent on exposed skin or clothing
Regular checks are one of the most effective ways to reduce risk.
Check for Ticks
Regular checks are one of the most effective ways to reduce risk. After spending time outdoors, check yourself, children, and pets carefully. Pay particular attention to behind the knees, around the waist, under the arms, and around the hairline and scalp.
How to Remove a Tick
- Use fine-tipped tweezers, grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible, and pull upwards slowly and steadily.
- Avoid squeezing or twisting the tick and clean the area thoroughly after removal.
Symptoms to Watch For
- A circular or oval rash, sometimes resembling a bull’s-eye
- Fatigue, fever, or chills
- Headache or muscle aches
- Joint pain
- Neck stiffness or general malaise
- Not everyone develops a rash—around one in three people may not show this symptom.
- If you experience symptoms after time outdoors, seek medical advice and mention possible tick exposure.
The Good News
Lyme disease is usually very treatable, particularly when caught early. Simple precautions can significantly reduce your risk, and most visitors enjoy the outdoors without any issues.
Further Information- https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/infections-and-poisoning/lyme-disease
