Bug Identifier
Blacklegged tick larva or seed tick
Community identification

Blacklegged tick larva or seed tick

Ixodes scapularis

Order & Family
Parasitiformes, Ixodidae
Size
Approximately 1 mm or smaller before feeding.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Wooded areas, brush, and tall grass where hosts are abundant.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate hematophage relying exclusively on vertebrate blood.

Behavior Patterns

Quest by waiting on vegetation for passing hosts to latch onto.

Risks & Benefits

Can transmit vector-borne pathogens like Lyme disease to humans and animals.