
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.
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.