WOOD TICK

Biology

• When not engorged, female is about ⅛ inch in length and the male is about 1/16 inch in length.
• Larvae are about 1/32 inch long with six legs.
• Transmits spirochete that causes Lyme disease.
• Distinct teardrop shape is located on the ticks back in a blackish white color.
• Body underneath the teardrop shape is dark reddish brown to black.

Distribution/Habits

• Found in northeastern and Midwestern states in the United States
• This tick us usually found in high grassy areas where fields meet wooded areas, along walkways and along trails.
• They feed on small animals, their preferred host is the white tailed deer, but they will feed on other large animals.
• The Deer tick will commonly feed on humans if the opportunity occurs.
• Once attached to the host, the barbed mouth along with a special glue substance allows the tick to hold fast until engorged.
• Very slow eater; may take up to 7 days to become fully engorged.
• May inflict a painful bite when attaching to host.