Soft Tick

Found in nests of birds or mammals, crevices in animal burrows, caves, and occasionally in rustic cabins or homes with rodent infestations.

Hematophagous (blood-feeding); they feed on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles or humans.

Unlike hard ticks, soft ticks are intermittent feeders. They typically feed at night for short durations (15-30 minutes) and then leave the host. They can survive for several years without a blood meal.

Risks include the transmission of Tick-Borne Relapsing Fever (TBRF) caused by Borrelia bacteria. Their bites can cause localized irritation or allergic reactions. They provide no significant benefits to humans and are considered pests.