Tick

Grassy, wooded, and bushy areas; often found on hosts (mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians).

Strictly hematophagous (blood feeders). They feed on the blood of vertebrates.

Questing behavior (climbing onto vegetation and waiting for a host to pass by). They attach to a host and feed for several days. Life cycle typically involves four stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult, each requiring a blood meal.

Potential risks: Ticks are vectors for numerous diseases including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis, ehrlichiosis, and babesiosis. Benefits: Minimal known direct benefits to humans or ecosystems, though they are part of the food chain for some animals.