Dog Tick (Nymph)

Found in wooded areas, tall grasses, and leaf litter; common in areas with significant undergrowth and proximity to mammalian paths.

Obligate hematophages; they feed exclusively on the blood of mammals, birds, and occasionally reptiles.

They exhibit 'questing' behavior by climbing to the tips of grass or leaves and extending their legs to latch onto passing hosts. They have a four-stage life cycle: egg, larva, nymph, and adult.

Significant risk to humans and animals as vectors for diseases such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and tularemia. They provide no significant benefits to human ecosystems and are considered medical pests.