Lone Star Tick

Wooded areas with thick undergrowth and long grass, often where deer are prevalent.

Hematophagous; feeds on the blood of mammals (including humans and deer), birds, and some reptiles.

An aggressive seeker that actively hunts hosts by crawling toward them rather than just waiting. They have a three-host life cycle (larva, nymph, adult).

High risk to humans; can transmit diseases like Ehrlichiosis and Heartland virus. A bite may cause 'Alpha-gal syndrome,' a serious allergic reaction to red meat.