Bug Identifier
Likely a tick (possibly a hard tick)
Community identification

Likely a tick (possibly a hard tick)

Ixodidae; species cannot be determined from this image

Order & Family
Ixodida, Ixodidae
Size
Usually about 2–10 mm, depending on species and whether it has fed.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Ticks occur in grassy, brushy, and wooded areas and may be found on animal hosts; this one is pictured on a surface.

Diet & Feeding

Ticks are blood-feeding parasites of mammals, birds, and reptiles; adults and nymphs attach to a host and feed for days.

Behavior Patterns

They do not jump or fly; many wait on vegetation for a passing host. Their life cycle includes egg, larva, nymph, and adult stages.

Risks & Benefits

Some ticks transmit diseases to people and animals. The photo is too small to confirm identification; avoid handling it bare-handed and use a close-up image for verification.