Ticks (Arachnida: Acari) are common in the United States and may transmit tick-borne diseases (TBDs) among community members. Because it is difficult to reduce tick populations, and because TBDs lack vaccines, awareness of tick bite prevention, proper tick removal, and knowledge of when to seek medical treatment are critical. However, outreach and extension programs are hampered by a lack of knowledge of what citizens know about ticks. College students enrolled in three non-majors Entomology courses at Oklahoma State University in 2018 were surveyed. More than 200 students completed pre- and post- surveys that indicated poor knowledge of tick biology. For both pre and post survey respondents, the most challenging survey questions were about tick habitats and dispersal mechanisms. Specifically, “ticks can jump” and “ticks reside up in trees” received the fewest correct responses and even with targeted materials, nearly 40% of students continued to hold misconceptions. Despite pre- and post- survey questions and supplemental education, improved knowledge of tick biology did not increase the likelihood of students using preventive measures against TBDs. The needs for improved science communication to all ages, and identification and correction of misconceptions even among highly educated members of the general public must be the focus of communicating entomological science and changing cultural false perceptions.
