American Dog Tick

Natural Habitat

Grassy areas, low-lying brush, and wooded paths, often in areas frequented by dogs or humans.

Diet & Feeding

Obligate blood-feeders; they consume blood from mammals, including dogs, deer, and humans.

Behavior Patterns

They utilize 'questing' by clinging to vegetation with back legs while stretching front legs to grab passing hosts. They have a three-host life cycle (larva, nymph, adult).

Risks & Benefits

Primary vector of Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Tularemia. They can also cause tick paralysis. They have no known benefits to human interest but serve as a food source for some birds and reptiles.

Identified on: 6/10/2026