Ear Tick

Natural Habitat

Arid and semi-arid regions; typically found in the ear canals of hosts or in soil/crevices of livestock pens and stables.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae and nymphs feed on the blood and lymph of hosts (primarily livestock, wildlife, and occasionally humans). Adults do not feed.

Behavior Patterns

Unlike hard ticks, they complete their larval and nymphal stages on a single host, often remaining in the ear for several months before dropping to the ground to molt into non-feeding adults.

Risks & Benefits

Causes irritation, inflammation, and potential secondary infections in the ear (Otitis externa); can cause extreme discomfort or hearing issues in humans and significant distress in livestock.

Identified on: 6/2/2026