(NEXSTAR) — An invasive tick that can prove fatal for cattle has spread to a new state, officials have confirmed.

The Asian longhorned tick, which was first detected in the U.S. in 2017, was found in Maine earlier this summer, University of Maine and state conservation officials said this week. This marks the furthest north the invasive species has been found.

As of September 2025, the tick has been able to spread to nearly two dozen states.

Here's what to know.

What is the Asian longhorned tick?

While invasive, the Asian longhorned tick looks relatively similar to any native tick you may be familiar with.

Before the tick has fed, it will have a light reddish-tan or dark reddish appearance, the U.S. Department of Agriculture explains. At this stage, they may be smaller than a sesame

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