American Dog Tick

Natural Habitat

Tall grass, low-growing brush, and wooded paths near human settlements or animal dens

Diet & Feeding

Obligate blood-feeders. Larvae and nymphs feed on small mammals like rodents; adults feed on larger mammals including dogs, deer, and humans.

Behavior Patterns

They exhibit 'questing' behavior, where they climb onto vegetation and wait with front legs outstretched to latch onto a passing host. They have a three-host life cycle that can take up to two years to complete.

Risks & Benefits

Known vector for Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia. Can cause tick paralysis in dogs and humans. They provide no significant ecological benefit to humans and are considered a major pest.

Identified on: 6/12/2026