Hard-bodied tick (embedded)

Typically found in grassy, brushy, or wooded areas, or on animal hosts.

Hematophagous; they feed exclusively on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles.

Ticks use a behavior called "questing" where they wait on grass or shrubs to latch onto a passing host. Once attached, they burrow their mouthparts into the host's skin to feed for several days.

Ticks are significant disease vectors, capable of transmitting pathogens such as those causing Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and Anaplasmosis. If a tick is embedded, it should be removed carefully with tweezers, and you should monitor for symptoms like fever or a rash. Consider consulting a healthcare professional for clinical evaluation and possible treatment.