Black-legged Tick (Deer Tick)

Wooded areas, tall grasses, and leaf litter.

Blood from mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles.

They climb onto grasses and wait for a passing host to latch onto (questing). Life cycle includes larva, nymph, and adult stages.

Primary vector for Lyme disease, anaplasmosis, and babesiosis. They provide no direct benefit to humans and are a significant public health concern. The 'bullseye' rash (erythema migrans) shown in the image is a characteristic sign of Lyme disease. If you see this rash, you should seek medical attention immediately.