Precipitation and temperature as predictors of the local abundance of Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) nymphs.

Populations of Ixodes scapularis Say nymphs were surveyed at a Lyme disease-endemic area for 8 consecutive yr (1998-2005) to characterize annual changes in abundance. Precipitation and temperature were also monitored over the period 1998-2004 to determine their potential value as predictors of tick abundance. Although both parameters showed annual variation, no statistical differences in the annual abundance of I. scapularis nymphs were observed over the 8-yr period. Our results suggest that precipitation and temperature were not predictive of the abundance of I. scapularis nymphs.