Soft Tick (Pigeon Tick or Fowl Tick)

Found in cracks and crevices near bird nesting sites, especially attics, pigeon coops, or abandoned bird nests in window sills.

Hematophagous (blood-feeder). They primarily feed on the blood of birds but will bite humans if their primary host is unavailable.

Unlike hard ticks, they are nocturnal and feed rapidly (taking minutes to hours) before returning to harborages in walls or nests. They can survive for several years without a blood meal.

Risks: Can cause severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis) in humans or local skin irritation. They are vectors for various avian pathogens. No ecological benefits to humans; considered a domestic pest.