American Dog Tick

Natural Habitat

Grassy areas, woodlands, along trails, and near human habitation. They often climb onto vegetation to wait for hosts.

Diet & Feeding

Blood of mammals, including humans, dogs, and other wild and domestic animals. Life stages (larva, nymph, adult) each feed once.

Behavior Patterns

Questing behavior: Ticks climb onto vegetation and extend their front legs, waiting to grab onto a passing host. They are active from spring through summer. Larvae and nymphs often feed on small mammals, while adults prefer larger mammals.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can transmit diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia to humans. Can cause tick paralysis in some animals. Benefits: No significant known benefits to humans, though they are a food source for some insectivorous animals.

Identified on: 9/28/2025